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Santa Clara County, California — County Report Card

CA

#23 in California

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
42.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 100Health 94.1Weather & Climate 80.7

County Report Card

About Santa Clara County, California

Santa Clara near the national livability median

Santa Clara's composite score of 42.2 sits just below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 41st percentile. The county's tech wealth supports exceptional incomes but fails to translate into balanced livability across all dimensions.

Above average for California overall

Santa Clara's 42.2 score exceeds California's state average of 40.9, reflecting the region's economic strength. However, the county lags peers like San Mateo in overall livability balance.

Peak incomes, exceptional health systems

Santa Clara boasts the nation's highest income score of 100.0, with median household income at $159,674, and health scores of 94.1 reflecting top-tier medical infrastructure. Tax burden scores of 62.5 also provide modest relief against high costs.

Housing unaffordable, safety scores lag badly

The county's cost score of 0.1 reflects median home values of $1.38 million and rents of $2,814/month—among the nation's least affordable. Safety scores of just 8.6 and school scores of 49.9 raise concerns about K-12 education quality despite economic strength.

For Silicon Valley workers with deep pockets

Santa Clara suits tech workers and established executives commanding six-figure salaries who need proximity to Bay Area jobs and can afford premium housing. Families on single incomes or those prioritizing personal safety should explore alternatives beyond the Valley.

Score breakdown

Tax62.5Cost0.1Safety8.6Health94.1Schools49.9Income100Risk0.3Water67.5Weather80.7
🏛62.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠0.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼100
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡8.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤94.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓49.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡0.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧67.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤80.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱69.8
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

San Mateo County
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Santa Cruz County
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Alameda County
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Deep Dives

Santa Clara County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Santa Clara County

via TaxByCounty

Santa Clara taxes nearly four times higher

Santa Clara County homeowners pay $9,766 annually—nearly four times the national median of $2,690. At 0.706%, the effective rate barely trails California's state average of 0.714%, but the county's $1.38 million median home value places it in the top 2% nationally for total tax burden.

Highest-taxed county in California

Santa Clara County ranks as the highest-taxed county in California in raw dollars, with residents paying a median of $9,766 annually. The county's effective rate of 0.706% sits just below the state average, but home values here are among the nation's most expensive.

Beats San Mateo by $599 per home

Santa Clara homeowners pay $9,766 annually, slightly more than San Mateo County's $9,167 despite similar home values above $1.3 million. Santa Cruz County residents, about 50 miles south, pay substantially less ($6,305) on cheaper homes worth $1.01 million.

A $1.38M home costs $9,766 yearly

The typical Santa Clara homeowner pays $9,766 in annual property taxes on a median home worth $1.38 million. With mortgage-related tax adjustments factored in, many residents see bills approach the $10,001 effective total.

Overassessments in Silicon Valley are common

In fast-appreciating Santa Clara County, many homeowners discover their assessed values lag significantly behind market reality—or sometimes exceed it. Filing a property tax appeal costs nothing and could reduce your annual burden, especially after market corrections or structural changes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Santa Clara County

via CostByCounty

Silicon Valley's surprising affordability edge

Despite being Silicon Valley's heart, Santa Clara County renters spend just 21.1% of income on housing—better than the state average of 22.4% and among the nation's best-managed rates. The median income of $159,674 is more than double the national average, making high costs manageable for local earners.

Most affordable for high earners statewide

Santa Clara ranks among California's better-balanced housing markets when accounting for income, with a 21.1% rent-to-income ratio. Median home values of $1.38 million remain steep, but the county's strong income levels keep the burden manageable.

The Valley's relative bargain

Santa Clara renters pay $2,814 monthly—slightly less than San Mateo's $2,893—yet earn $3,674 more annually ($159,674 vs. $156,000). Compared to Santa Cruz County ($2,172/month rent), Santa Clara costs more but offers greater tech-sector income potential.

How Silicon Valley budgets housing costs

The typical household earning $159,674 spends $2,814 on rent or $3,233 for ownership, claiming just over one-fifth of income. This favorable ratio reflects the alignment between high local wages and housing costs—though it's only achievable for tech professionals and established residents.

Moving to the Valley? Tech jobs make it work

Santa Clara works best for high-income earners; a $1.38 million median home requires substantial savings or a six-figure salary. Compare with San Mateo for similar tech density or look to Santa Cruz County if you prefer lower housing costs with a 90-minute commute.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Santa Clara County

via IncomeByCounty

Santa Clara dominates national earnings

Santa Clara County's median household income of $159,674 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by 114%, ranking it among America's highest-earning counties. Per capita income reaches $77,018—nearly double the national average per capita of roughly $39,000. This Silicon Valley powerhouse anchors the nation's wealth creation engine.

California's top earner

At $159,674, Santa Clara County claims the highest median household income in California, running 83% above the state average of $87,001. Its per capita income of $77,018 nearly doubles California's average of $43,669. Santa Clara is the state's premier income and innovation hub.

Tech corridor's twin peaks

Santa Clara ($159,674) narrowly leads San Mateo County ($156,000), with both anchored by tech and biotech sectors in the Bay Area. Santa Cruz County ($109,266) and Solano County ($99,994) trail by $50,000+ per household. The concentration of high-income households in these two adjacent counties creates a regional wealth epicenter.

Wealth tested by housing costs

Santa Clara residents spend 21.1% of income on rent despite median household incomes near $160,000, because median home values hit $1,382,800. While rent-to-income ratios remain reasonable, the absolute housing costs still claim substantial wealth. Even top earners must strategize carefully to build equity beyond their primary residence.

Invest surplus income strategically

With $159,674 median household income, Santa Clara households generate significant surplus after essential costs, creating opportunity for aggressive wealth-building. Maximize 401(k) contributions, consider taxable investment accounts, and explore secondary real estate opportunities in appreciating markets. The county's extraordinary income advantage compounds into generational wealth with disciplined strategy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Santa Clara County

via CrimeByCounty

Higher Crime Rates in Tech Hubs

Santa Clara County's total crime rate of 2,911.5 per 100K is roughly 22% higher than the national average. Despite this volume, it maintains a safety score of 95.4, indicating concentrated rather than widespread risk.

Trailing Slightly Behind State Averages

The county's safety score of 95.4 sits just below the California average of 96.3. As a major employment and residential hub, it faces higher property crime challenges than more rural counties.

The South Bay Safety Landscape

Santa Clara sees higher property crime rates than San Mateo but remains safer than some East Bay urban centers. Its total crime rate reflects its status as the most populous county in Northern California.

Property Crime Drives the Numbers

Property crime is the primary concern here, reaching 2,522.2 incidents per 100K. The violent crime rate of 389.3 is closer to the national norm, suggesting the bulk of police activity focuses on theft.

Modern Security for Modern Living

With property crime as the most prevalent issue, residents should invest in connected home security systems. Video doorbells and automated alerts provide essential peace of mind in high-traffic neighborhoods.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Santa Clara County

via HealthByCounty

Silicon Valley's longevity advantage

Santa Clara County residents live to 83.8 years, beating the U.S. average of 78.3 years by 5.5 years. With 14.8% reporting poor or fair health—below the national 18% rate—the county demonstrates strong population health outcomes.

Among California's healthiest

Santa Clara's 83.8-year life expectancy exceeds California's 78.5 average by 5.3 years, positioning it as a top-performing county. The uninsured rate of 4.0% sits well below the state average of 7.2%, reflecting excellent coverage.

Edges out regional competitors

Santa Clara's 14.8% poor/fair health rate trails only San Mateo County (13.2%) among Bay Area peers, while its 4.0% uninsured rate ranks lowest in the region. Life expectancy at 83.8 years ranks second only to San Mateo's 84.1 years.

Excellent access, strong primary care

Just 4.0% of Santa Clara residents lack health insurance, providing nearly universal coverage. The county maintains 107 primary care providers and 453 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, supporting comprehensive and accessible healthcare delivery.

Keep your coverage secure

Though Santa Clara leads on coverage, changes in employment or income can disrupt protection. Check coveredca.com annually to confirm your plan remains optimal and explore options if life circumstances shift.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Santa Clara County

via SchoolsByCounty

The Epicenter of Silicon Valley Education

Santa Clara County manages a massive network of 411 public schools, educating 235,111 students within 79 districts. This vast system includes 255 elementary schools and 79 high schools, reflecting the region's dense population. Charter schools are highly prevalent here, with 63 campuses making up over 15% of the county's total schools.

High Investment Amidst Graduation Challenges

The county spends $9,513 per pupil, which is nearly $800 more than the California state average. Despite this investment, the graduation rate of 82.9% falls below both the state and national benchmarks of roughly 87%. However, the overall school score of 55.2 remains competitive within the California context.

Massive Districts and High-Enrollment Campuses

San Jose Unified is the region's heavyweight, managing 42 schools and 25,351 students. Other major players include Santa Clara Unified and Cupertino Union, which together serve over 27,000 students. Individual high schools are notably large; Milpitas High leads with 3,026 students, while Evergreen Valley High serves 2,767.

Dynamic Urban Environments and Large Classes

Education in Santa Clara County is overwhelmingly urban, with 342 schools located in city settings. The average school size is 583 students, but many high schools function as mini-cities with enrollments exceeding 2,300 students. This creates a high-energy, diverse academic environment typical of a major metropolitan hub.

Secure a Spot in Top-Tier Districts

The sheer variety of 79 districts means Santa Clara County offers an educational path for every family. From the tech-adjacent schools of Cupertino to the sprawling campuses of San Jose, school quality is a major driver of local real estate value. Researching specific district performance is essential for any family looking to buy in Silicon Valley.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Santa Clara County

via RiskByCounty

Santa Clara faces the nation's highest risk

Santa Clara County's composite risk score of 99.75 ranks among the absolute highest in the nation, earning a 'Very High' rating. The county's combination of seismic activity, urban flood exposure, and wildland-urban interface creates compounded vulnerability.

California's most at-risk county overall

Santa Clara's 99.75 score stands as California's highest, far exceeding the state average of 88.72. The county's position astride major fault lines and rapid development in flood-prone areas drive this exceptional vulnerability.

Highest risk in the entire Bay Area

Santa Clara (99.75) faces significantly greater overall risk than San Mateo (99.24) and Santa Cruz (97.81), making it the Bay Area's most hazard-vulnerable county. Its combination of high earthquake (99.94), flood (99.78), and tornado (55.79) risks exceeds regional peers.

Earthquakes and floods threaten everywhere

Santa Clara's earthquake risk reaches 99.94—virtually at the maximum—while flood risk scores 99.78, affecting both valley floor residents and foothills communities. Wildfire risk (97.39) poses additional significant threat to foothill neighborhoods and open-space communities.

Every coverage type matters in Santa Clara

Santa Clara residents need earthquake insurance (99.94 risk), flood insurance (99.78 risk), and wildfire coverage as baseline protections. Comprehensive emergency planning and regular home hardening are as important as insurance for this ultra-high-risk county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Santa Clara County

via WeatherByCounty

The Ideal Temperate Valley Environment

Santa Clara averages 59.1°F, exceeding the national median and providing a reliably warm climate. This environment supports both the region's historical orchards and its modern tech hubs.

Matching the California Average Perfectly

The county's 59.1°F annual average is nearly identical to the California state average of 58.7°F. It serves as a benchmark for the state's most populated coastal-adjacent regions.

A Drier Choice in the Bay Area

With only 21.2 inches of annual precipitation, Santa Clara is drier than San Mateo and Santa Cruz. It uniquely records 3.6 inches of snowfall in its higher elevations, unlike its immediate coastal neighbors.

Warm Summers and Crisp Winter Nights

July averages nearly 70°F, accompanied by 19 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winter temperatures average 49.4°F, making it slightly cooler than the adjacent San Mateo County.

HVAC Readiness for Summer Heat

Energy-efficient cooling is important for the 19 days of high heat throughout the summer. Homeowners should also plan for occasional winter frosts when temperatures dip toward the 49°F average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Santa Clara County

via SoilByCounty

The Foundation of the Valley of Heart's Delight

Santa Clara County’s soil data is currently limited, missing specific pH and taxonomic classifications. Historically famous for its orchards, the valley likely aligns near the California average pH of 6.34. This moderate acidity is slightly lower than the national median of 6.5, supporting a wide range of plant life.

Mapping the Texture of the Silicon Valley

There is currently no specific data on the sand, silt, and clay balance for this county. Without these percentages, gardeners should perform a ribbon test to check for clay content and workability. Understanding your soil's texture is the first step in managing nutrient retention for your landscape.

Building Robust Soil for Urban Gardens

The county lacks recorded data for organic matter and available water capacity in this survey. Aim to match the California average of 3.30% organic matter to provide your plants with the necessary nutrients. Maintaining high organic levels also helps reach the state's average water capacity of 0.141 inches per inch.

Observing Natural Hydrology Patterns

Specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups for Santa Clara are not detailed in this data. Because much of the valley floor is urbanized, local drainage often depends on human-made infrastructure as much as soil type. Homeowners should check for standing water after storms to assess their specific lot's needs.

A Versatile Climate in Zone 9b

Santa Clara County falls into Hardiness Zone 9b, providing a reliable environment for summer favorites like tomatoes and peppers. The mild winters and warm summers make it an ideal place for both stone fruits and ornamental gardens. Now is a great time to revitalize the valley's agricultural roots in your own backyard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Santa Clara County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable conditions in the valley

Santa Clara County features a lawn difficulty score of 69.8, making it much easier to maintain than the national average. Situated in Zone 9b, the region avoids the extreme cold that kills off turf in other parts of the country. Your lawn maintenance journey starts with a significant advantage over the California state average of 51.3.

Moderate heat meets dry air

The county sees 19 days of extreme heat, which is mild compared to the state average of 59 days. Annual precipitation of 21.2 inches is on the lower side, requiring you to supplement with irrigation to reach the 30-inch ideal mark. High growing degree days of 3,701 suggest your grass will stay active for most of the year.

Managing your soil profile

Local data for soil texture is limited, but valley soils often lean toward heavier clay which can trap moisture or restrict roots. Incorporating organic matter will help balance the 21.2 inches of rain and improve drainage during winter storms. Focus on maintaining a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 to maximize the efficiency of your fertilizers.

Consistent moisture and low stress

Santa Clara has experienced 0 weeks of drought in the past year, providing a reprieve from California's usual water constraints. Maintaining this health requires consistent watering schedules to offset the 19 extreme heat days. Installing a rain sensor on your irrigation system ensures you don't waste water when the skies do open up.

Spring into action early

Tall Fescue is a regional favorite because it handles the 9b climate while staying green through the winter. With the last frost typically occurring on February 2, you can start your spring lawn care routine much earlier than most of the country. Aim to have your new seeds or sod established before the first fall frost on December 15.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Santa Clara County's county score?
Santa Clara County, California has a composite county score of 42.2 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 Santa Clara County rank among counties in California?
Santa Clara County ranks #23 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 Santa Clara County, California?
The median annual property tax in Santa Clara County is $9,766, with an effective tax rate of 0.71%. This earns Santa Clara County a tax score of 62.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Santa Clara County?
The median household income in Santa Clara County, California is $159,674 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Santa Clara County earns an income score of 100/100 on CountyScore.
Is Santa Clara County, California a good place to live?
Santa Clara County scores 42.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #23 in California. The best way to evaluate Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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.