countyscore
47.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Property Tax 77.7Cost of Living 52.5

County Report Card

About Shoshone County, Idaho

Competitive in the Rural West

Shoshone County scores a 47.6, which is just below the national median of 50.0. For a mountainous rural region, this score reflects a high degree of livability in specific areas like water quality. It holds its own against many other scenic western counties.

A Solid Mid-Range Idaho County

Shoshone’s 47.6 score places it below the Idaho state average of 52.2, though it remains a regional anchor. It provides a different lifestyle focused on natural resources rather than rapid urban development. The county offers a traditional Idaho experience.

Top-Tier Water and Tax Benefits

The county excels with a Water Score of 86.0, indicating high-quality natural resources. It also maintains a strong Tax Score of 77.7, keeping more money in residents' pockets. These highlights make it a physically and financially refreshing place to live.

Income and Health Infrastructure Gaps

Shoshone struggles with a low Income Score of 14.4 and a Health Score of 32.6. The median household income of $49,975 is lower than many state peers, suggesting limited local economic growth. Strengthening health services and job diversity are key future goals.

Great for Nature Lovers on a Budget

Shoshone County is a fantastic fit for those who value clean water and affordable $222,700 homes. It suits residents who prioritize environmental quality and low taxes over high-income career paths. It is a scenic haven for those seeking a slower pace of life.

Score breakdown

Tax77.7Cost52.5Safety47.1Health32.6Schools33.5Income14.4Risk37.2Water86Weather45.3
🏛77.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠52.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼14.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡47.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤32.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓33.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡37.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱48.8
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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Deep Dives

Shoshone County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Shoshone County

via TaxByCounty

Shoshone taxes approach U.S. median

Shoshone County's effective tax rate of 0.572% sits just below the U.S. median of 0.71%, placing it slightly below the national midpoint. The median property tax of $1,273 is less than half the national median of $2,690, primarily because median home values here are much lower.

Mid-range Idaho county for tax rates

Shoshone County's 0.572% effective rate is 12% above Idaho's statewide average of 0.508%, placing it in the upper-middle tier among the state's 44 counties. The median tax of $1,273 is $256 below Idaho's state median of $1,529.

Higher-taxing than most regional peers

Shoshone County's 0.572% rate exceeds nearby Minidoka (0.518%), Oneida (0.513%), Madison (0.497%), and Owyhee (0.481%). It falls short only of Nez Perce (0.868%) and Power (0.825%) in the region.

Median home costs $1,273 yearly in taxes

On Shoshone County's median home value of $222,700, homeowners pay approximately $1,273 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, taxes average $1,265; without, they average $1,282.

Verify your assessment's accuracy today

Shoshone County homeowners should review their property assessments carefully to ensure they're not paying more than warranted. Filing an appeal against an overvalued assessment could yield meaningful annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Shoshone County

via CostByCounty

Shoshone faces severe affordability stress

Shoshone County's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks among America's least affordable, with renters spending over one-fifth of income on housing. With a median household income of just $49,975—the region's lowest—renters at $880 monthly face genuine affordability crisis conditions.

Idaho's least affordable county

Shoshone County's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio is the worst in Idaho, far exceeding the state average of 16.8% and the national comfort threshold. This acute affordability gap reflects both lower local income and rents that outpace earning capacity.

Highest rent burden in the region

Shoshone's $880 rent sits near regional medians, but its $49,975 median income—$10,000 below any neighbor—creates the region's worst affordability crisis. Housing costs consume nearly one-fifth of household income here, double the comfortable threshold.

Housing dominates household budgets

Renters spend $880 monthly while homeowners pay $760 on median-valued homes of $222,700. Against the $49,975 median income, rents consume 21.1% of household resources while homeownership costs less proportionally—but require capital most residents lack.

Only move if income is secure

Shoshone County demands careful financial planning before relocation—household incomes here lag significantly while housing costs remain substantial. Only consider moving if your expected salary substantially exceeds the $49,975 median, ensuring housing won't consume excessive portions of your paycheck.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Shoshone County

via IncomeByCounty

Shoshone faces steepest income gap

Shoshone County's median household income of $49,975 falls 33% below the national median of $74,755, the lowest among these eight counties. The county reflects long-term economic challenges in post-industrial mining regions.

Lowest income county in Idaho set

At $49,975, Shoshone trails Idaho's state average of $65,770 by $15,795, ranking among the lowest-income counties statewide. The decline reflects decades of resource-extraction economy contraction.

Significantly below all regional counties

Shoshone's $49,975 income trails every other county in this analysis, with the nearest county (Madison at $58,259) earning $8,284 more annually. The gap reflects Shoshone's unique economic struggles.

Housing costs strain low incomes

Shoshone's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio is the highest in the region, signaling housing affordability stress. A median home value of $222,700 remains out of reach for median-income households.

Focus on skills training and stability

Shoshone County residents earning $49,975 should prioritize income growth through upskilling and education before aggressive investing. Building small emergency reserves and accessing community financial counseling creates the foundation for future wealth-building.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Shoshone County

via CrimeByCounty

Shoshone County Remains Statistically Safe

Shoshone County holds a safety score of 98.1, outperforming the majority of the United States. Its total crime rate of 1,186.6 per 100,000 is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

High Reporting Standards in Shoshone

With four reporting agencies, Shoshone provides a comprehensive look at local crime, which stands at 1,186.6 per 100,000. This rate is roughly 15% higher than the Idaho state average of 1,027.1.

Shoshone Compared to Northern Peers

Shoshone’s crime rate of 1,186.6 is nearly identical to Minidoka County’s 1,183.8. It remains far safer than Nez Perce County, where the crime rate is nearly double at 2,426.5.

Elevated Violent Crime but Low Property Crime

The violent crime rate of 380.6 per 100,000 is higher than both the state average and the national rate of 369.8. However, property crime is notably low at 806.0, compared to the national average of 2,015.7.

Enhancing Your Personal Security

Since violent crime rates are slightly elevated, residents should prioritize home security systems and personal safety awareness. Simple measures like doorbell cameras can help law enforcement track and deter neighborhood activity.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Shoshone County

via HealthByCounty

Shoshone County faces critical health crisis

At 73.6 years, Shoshone County residents live 3.9 years shorter than the U.S. average of 77.5 years—the lowest life expectancy in the state. With 22.7% reporting poor or fair health, the county faces the region's most severe wellness challenges.

Idaho's most vulnerable health county

Shoshone County's 73.6-year life expectancy ranks lowest in Idaho, trailing the state average of 77.5 years by 3.9 years. At 10.7% uninsured, coverage is slightly better than the state average of 11.7%, but other factors drive poor outcomes.

Shoshone trails all regional comparators

Shoshone County's 73.6-year life expectancy is 5.5 years below Madison County (79.1 years) and 4.5 years below Oneida (78.6 years). While primary care access at 44 per 100K is moderate, mental health providers at 121 per 100K cannot address the county's deep health burden.

Coverage adequate, but outcomes lag severely

Shoshone County's 10.7% uninsured rate is better than the state average, yet the county still experiences the lowest life expectancy in Idaho. This paradox suggests underlying social, economic, or occupational health challenges that transcend insurance access alone.

Shoshone County: health coverage is critical

Despite decent insurance rates, Shoshone County faces the state's gravest health crisis, with life expectancy nearly four years below the national average. Confirm your coverage at healthcare.gov and engage with available providers—care access is essential to reversing these trends.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Shoshone County

via SchoolsByCounty

Historic Mining Towns with Modern Schools

Shoshone County supports 1,702 students across seven public schools and three school districts. The county features three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools to serve its mountain communities. No charter schools are currently operating in this region of the Idaho Panhandle.

High Investment per Student in the Panhandle

The county invests heavily in its students with a per-pupil expenditure of $7,393, well above the Idaho state average. Despite this funding, the graduation rate of 83.2% sits just below the state and national averages. However, the county maintains a respectable composite school score of 50.8.

Leading Districts in Kellogg and Wallace

The Kellogg Joint District and Wallace District are the primary educational providers for the county's families. Wallace District serves 512 students, while smaller districts like Mullan (85 students) and Avery (24 students) serve more isolated areas. All districts focus on traditional public education without charter alternatives.

Small Classes in a Beautiful Rural Setting

Four schools are located in rural areas, while three are situated in town locales like Kellogg and Wallace. Pinehurst Elementary is the largest school in the county with 474 students, while the tiny Avery school serves just 24. This wide range of school sizes allows families to choose the learning environment that best fits their child.

Settle Down Near Kellogg or Wallace Schools

High per-pupil spending makes Shoshone County a hidden gem for families looking for well-funded rural education. Whether you prefer the town life of Wallace or the quiet of Pinehurst, quality school options are nearby. Explore local real estate to find a home in these historic and supportive school districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Shoshone County

via RiskByCounty

Shoshone County faces above-average risk

Shoshone County's composite risk score of 62.85 places it above the national average and carries a "Relatively Low" overall rating. While not among the nation's highest-risk counties, residents face meaningful natural disaster exposure that requires preparedness and appropriate insurance.

Idaho's highest-risk county

Shoshone County's score of 62.85 ranks it as Idaho's riskiest county, substantially exceeding the state average of 38.51. This elevated position reflects the county's particular vulnerability to floods and wildfires in its mountainous terrain and river valleys.

Shoshone leads panhandle in risk

Shoshone County's 62.85 score ranks higher than all neighboring counties, making it the most disaster-exposed region in North Idaho and the Panhandle. Madison County's 58.62 comes closest, but Shoshone's flood risk of 76.02 sets it distinctly apart.

Floods and wildfires threaten Panhandle

Shoshone County faces a flood risk of 76.02—among Idaho's highest—due to its mountainous terrain where spring snowmelt and heavy rains inundate river valleys and create flash flood hazards. Wildfire risk at 69.62 compounds concerns, as surrounding forests provide abundant fuel for seasonal fires that threaten communities and air quality.

Flood and wildfire insurance essential

Given Shoshone County's flood risk of 76.02, homeowners should strongly consider flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, especially if located near rivers, creeks, or historically flood-prone areas. Additionally, ensure your homeowners policy covers wildfire damage and maintain defensible space by clearing vegetation around structures, as the county's 69.62 wildfire score requires serious fire preparedness.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Shoshone County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool, Wet Northern Mountains

Shoshone is a cool, wet exception with a 44.1°F average temperature and a massive 38.2 inches of precipitation. This is more than triple the precipitation of Idaho's drier southern counties.

One of Idaho's Wettest Counties

It is one of the wettest and coolest counties in Idaho, contrasting sharply with the 46.5°F state average. Shoshone's mountains capture significant Pacific moisture that the rest of the state misses.

The Region's Precipitation Leader

It is much wetter than neighbors like Kootenai, receiving over 20 inches more precipitation than the state average. The county's 64 inches of snow far exceeds the regional norm.

Cool Summers and Heavy Snow

Summers are refreshingly cool with a 62°F average and only 11 days of extreme heat. Winters are dominated by heavy snow and a December-February average of 27.9°F.

Gear Up for Rain and Snow

Invest in heavy-duty snow tires to manage the 64-inch annual snowfall. Waterproof gear is a must for the 38.2 inches of rain and heavy seasonal snowmelt.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Shoshone County

via SoilByCounty

Shoshone's Soil Identity

Shoshone County fits into Idaho's average soil pH of 6.04, which is slightly more acidic than the national 6.5 median. This acidity is typical of mountain regions and influences what types of native plants and timber will grow best. Knowing this baseline helps gardeners select acid-loving plants like blueberries.

Understanding Local Soil Texture

Specific sand, silt, and clay data for Shoshone is not currently summarized. These components are essential for understanding how well the soil drains and its ability to hold onto nutrients. In a mountainous county, texture often varies significantly depending on the elevation and slope.

Rich Organic Potential

With a state average organic matter of 27.53%, Idaho soils are far richer than the national average of 2.0%. This leads to a high available water capacity of 0.269 in/in, which is vital for forest and garden health. Shoshone's wild landscapes benefit greatly from these strong regional organic benchmarks.

Managing Drainage in the Mountains

Detailed drainage class data is not currently available, but it is a critical factor in Shoshone’s rugged terrain. Proper drainage helps prevent erosion on slopes and keeps home gardens from becoming oversaturated during the spring thaw. Understanding your plot's hydrology is the key to preventing water damage.

Growing in Hardiness Zone 6b

Shoshone County is in Hardiness Zone 6b, offering a moderate growing season for many hardy perennials and vegetables. You can successfully grow raspberries, strawberries, and cool-season greens like spinach and lettuce. Start your mountain garden now to enjoy fresh, local food throughout the summer.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Shoshone County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Moisture in Shoshone

Shoshone County scores 48.8 for lawn difficulty, nearly reaching the national median and far outperforming the Idaho average. This Zone 6b county is one of the most lawn-friendly areas in the state. The score reflects a climate that is naturally much better suited for lush turf.

Abundant Rain and Cool Summers

Unlike most of Idaho, Shoshone receives a generous 38.2 inches of annual precipitation, which is right in the ideal range for lawns. With only 11 days of extreme heat, the grass rarely suffers from the scorching temperatures common elsewhere. The lower 1,538 growing degree days mean a slower, more manageable growth rate.

Managing High-Rainfall Soils

In areas with 38 inches of rain, soil can become more acidic, so testing for pH is vital. While specific data for the county is limited, residents should ensure their soil drains well to prevent root rot during wet periods. Adding compost can help maintain the nutrient balance in this high-moisture environment.

Persistent Drought Despite Rain

Surprisingly, Shoshone spent 53 weeks in some level of drought over the past year, with 15.3% of the area in severe drought. This highlight's the importance of having an irrigation backup even in high-precipitation zones. Monitoring local conditions is key to navigating these unusual dry spells.

Green Growth in Zone 6b

Perennial Ryegrass and Kentucky Bluegrass thrive in Shoshone’s cooler, wetter climate. With the last frost usually landing on May 14, mid-to-late May is the perfect time to begin your lawn project. The combination of natural rain and mild summers makes this one of the best places in Idaho to grow a lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shoshone County's county score?
Shoshone County, Idaho has a composite county score of 47.6 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 Shoshone County rank among counties in Idaho?
Shoshone County ranks #31 among all counties in Idaho 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 Shoshone County, Idaho?
The median annual property tax in Shoshone County is $1,273, with an effective tax rate of 0.57%. This earns Shoshone County a tax score of 77.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Shoshone County?
The median household income in Shoshone County, Idaho is $49,975 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Shoshone County earns an income score of 14.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Shoshone County, Idaho a good place to live?
Shoshone County scores 47.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #31 in Idaho. The best way to evaluate Shoshone 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 Shoshone 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.