countyscore
52.4
County Score
Schools 83.3Health 80.7Disaster Risk 68.5

County Report Card

About Sierra County, California

Sierra punches above the national average

Sierra's composite score of 52.4 exceeds the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 54th percentile—strong performance for a remote mountain county. This is driven entirely by affordability and education, offset by income and water challenges.

Well above California's typical performance

At 52.4, Sierra significantly outperforms California's state average of 40.9, ranking among the state's best-performing counties. This reflects the county's unique rural-education and affordability advantages.

Outstanding schools and exceptional affordability

Sierra boasts a school score of 83.3—among California's highest—and a cost score of 14.1 with median home values of just $334,100 and rents of $1,181/month. Health scores of 80.7 round out a solid foundation for families valuing education and affordability.

Low incomes and significant water scarcity

Sierra's income score of 39.0 with median household income of just $60,000 reflects economic isolation in the mountains. Water availability scores of 26.1 and flood/risk scores of 68.5 indicate serious environmental constraints.

For educators and families prioritizing schools

Sierra appeals to teachers, school administrators, and families seeking outstanding education systems in an affordable, tight-knit community. Those needing higher incomes or concerned about water resources should explore more developed regions.

Score breakdown

Tax55.3Cost14.1Safety49.8Health80.7Schools83.3Income39Risk68.5Water26.1Weather42
🏛55.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠14.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼39
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡49.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤80.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓83.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡68.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧26.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤42
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱64.9
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

Nevada County
California
45.2
Plumas County
California
41
Placer County
California
46.5
Yuba County
California
37.7
Carson City
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Lassen County
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Storey County
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El Dorado County
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Deep Dives

Sierra County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Sierra County

via TaxByCounty

Sierra's rate highest among peers

Sierra County residents pay a median of $2,590 in property taxes—roughly on par with the national median of $2,690. However, Sierra's effective rate of 0.775% stands notably above California's state average of 0.714%, making it one of the highest-taxed counties by rate in the state.

Highest effective rate in sample

Sierra County's 0.775% effective tax rate ranks among the very highest in California, more than 6 basis points above the state average of 0.714%. This makes Sierra one of the steepest-taxed counties by rate percentage, despite relatively affordable home values.

Significantly pricier than Shasta

Sierra County homeowners pay $2,590 annually on a median home worth $334,100—higher both in rate (0.775% vs. 0.703%) and absolute dollars than neighboring Shasta County ($2,442). The rate difference is particularly steep for a rural county.

A $334K home costs $2,590 yearly

The typical Sierra County homeowner pays $2,590 in annual property taxes on a median home valued at $334,100. Adding mortgage-related assessments brings the total to approximately $2,969.

High rates make appeals more valuable

Sierra County's unusually high effective tax rate of 0.775% means overassessments have outsized impact on your budget. Filing a no-cost property tax appeal could yield meaningful savings in this high-tax county.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sierra County

via CostByCounty

Mountain living on modest income

Sierra County renters spend 23.6% of their income on housing—slightly above state average—despite the lowest median income in this cohort at $60,000. At $1,181/month for rent, costs are genuinely low, reflecting the county's rural mountain character.

Among California's most affordable regions

Sierra County ranks near the bottom of California's housing-cost spectrum, with median rents of $1,181 (27% below state average) and home values just above $334,000. The county offers rare affordability for working-class Californians with limited income.

The high country bargain

Sierra renters pay $1,181 monthly—$86 more than Siskiyou but nearly half Santa Barbara's rate—for access to mountain communities. Home prices of $334,100 are comparable to Shasta County, making this an alternative for those seeking high-elevation living.

Sierra County's tight budget reality

A household earning $60,000 annually dedicates $1,181 to rent (23.6% of income) or $1,373 for ownership. While the housing cost ratio is reasonable, the low absolute income leaves little margin for medical emergencies, car repairs, or other unexpected expenses.

Sierra County: for mountain lovers on tight budgets

This remote mountain county works best for retirees with modest fixed income or remote workers earning above-local wages. Limited job markets and harsh winters are the real costs here; affordable housing is the benefit.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sierra County

via IncomeByCounty

Sierra falls short of national earnings

Sierra County's median household income of $60,000 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 20%, indicating below-average earning capacity in this remote mountain region. Per capita income of $40,612 also falls below national norms. This rural county faces significant income-generation challenges.

Lowest-income cohort in California

Sierra's $60,000 median household income runs 31% below California's state average of $87,001, placing it in the state's lowest-earning tier. Per capita income of $40,612 falls nearly $3,000 below the state average of $43,669. The county ranks among California's poorest by income metrics.

Poorest of rural mountain counties

Sierra ($60,000) barely outearns Siskiyou County ($55,499), with both trapped in the state's lowest income tiers. Shasta County ($71,931) to the south earns roughly $12,000 more per household. These remote northern and eastern mountain counties face structural economic challenges limiting income growth.

Low income, modest housing relief

Sierra residents spend 23.6% of their $60,000 income on rent, with median home values of $334,100 providing relative affordability. While housing costs remain manageable, the absolute income of $60,000 leaves limited surplus for savings and wealth-building. Many households here operate on tight margins.

Build resilience with limited resources

Despite earning $60,000 annually, Sierra households benefit from modest housing costs that free roughly 76% of income for other needs. Focus first on emergency savings and employer retirement programs, then systematically invest surplus amounts into low-cost index funds. Even modest, consistent savings compound into meaningful long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sierra County

via CrimeByCounty

Rural Safety in Sierra County

Sierra County reports a total crime rate of 1,131.7 per 100K, well below the national average of 2,385.5. This rural landscape earns a high safety score of 98.2 out of 100.

Exceeding State Safety Norms

The county significantly outperforms the California average safety score of 96.3. With only two reporting agencies, the data reflects a tight-knit and secure community with minimal incidents.

A Quiet Alternative to Neighbors

Sierra is notably safer than more populated neighbors like Nevada County. Its property crime rate of 788.8 is a fraction of the California average of 2,355.2.

Small Population, Small Numbers

Violent crime sits at 342.9 per 100K, which is relatively close to the national average. However, the low property crime rate of 788.8 keeps the overall crime volume very low.

Remote Security for Rural Living

In isolated areas, distance from neighbors makes remote monitoring essential. Smart doorbells and driveway sensors provide critical alerts for properties where response times may be longer.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sierra County

via HealthByCounty

Sierra County life expectancy solid

Sierra County residents live to 81.3 years, beating the U.S. average of 78.3 years by 3 years. However, 17.3% report poor or fair health, the highest in this comparison, suggesting wellness challenges despite longer lifespan.

Above state average on longevity

Sierra's 81.3-year life expectancy exceeds California's 78.5 average by 2.8 years. The county's 6.3% uninsured rate sits below the state average of 7.2%, indicating reasonable coverage access for this rural mountain community.

Rural health patterns emerge

Sierra's 81.3-year life expectancy matches some healthier coastal counties but its 17.3% poor/fair health rate—the highest in this group—suggests underlying health conditions despite relative longevity. Primary care provider data is unavailable, limiting full capacity assessment.

Limited provider data masks challenges

Primary care provider data for Sierra County is currently unavailable, complicating full assessment of physical healthcare access. The county reports 250 mental health providers per 100,000 residents and 6.3% uninsured, though the small population makes per-100K metrics less meaningful.

Ensure continuous coverage

For Sierra County's small, scattered population, maintaining active health insurance is essential given limited local providers and distance to larger medical centers. Visit coveredca.com to confirm coverage is active and explore telehealth options that can supplement local access.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sierra County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Learning in the High Sierra

Sierra County operates one of the smallest public school systems in California, with just 7 schools serving 400 total students. The system consists of 2 elementary schools and 4 high schools managed by 3 districts. This small scale ensures that every student is a known member of the community.

Exceptional Graduation Rates in a Rural Setting

Sierra County achieves a remarkable 95.0% graduation rate, far exceeding both the state average of 87.5% and the national 87.0% benchmark. This success is supported by a per-pupil expenditure of $9,124, which is higher than the California average. The county's school score of 60.7 is among the highest in the region.

Sierra-Plumas Unified Leads the Way

The Sierra-Plumas Joint Unified district is the primary educational provider, managing 5 schools and all 400 of the county's students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, as the existing traditional schools serve the entire population. Loyalton Elementary is the largest campus, with an enrollment of 191 students.

True Rural Education with Personal Attention

Every single school in Sierra County is located in a rural setting, offering a unique mountain town educational experience. With an average school size of only 80 students, the learning environment is extremely personalized. Schools like Downieville Junior-Senior High serve as few as 20 students, creating a tight-knit family atmosphere.

Quiet Living with Top-Tier Results

If you are looking for a small-town atmosphere where your child won't get lost in the crowd, Sierra County is unmatched. The 95% graduation rate is a testament to the effectiveness of these small rural schools. Homes in the Loyalton area offer the closest proximity to the county's largest educational facilities and most consistent academic outcomes.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sierra County

via RiskByCounty

Sierra County faces below-average risk

Sierra County's composite risk score of 31.52 earns a 'Very Low' rating and falls significantly below the national average. This rural, mountainous county's overall vulnerability is notably lower than most of California, though specific hazards still require attention.

California's safest county overall

Sierra's 31.52 score is far below California's 88.72 average, making it the state's lowest-risk county by a substantial margin. The county's low population density and distance from major fault lines contribute to its exceptional safety profile.

Significantly safer than surrounding counties

Sierra (31.52) faces dramatically lower risk than neighboring Shasta (93.38) and Siskiyou (89.03), making it a notable exception in northern California's hazard profile. The county's high elevation and remote location insulate it from many regional risks.

Wildfire remains the primary concern

Sierra's wildfire risk scores 95.58, reflecting the county's extensive forest cover and elevation, despite overall low composite risk. Flood risk (37.69) and earthquake risk (66.83) are moderate by state standards, posing less immediate threat than fire.

Wildfire insurance protects mountain homes

Sierra County residents should focus on wildfire insurance given the 95.58 risk score, even as other hazards remain relatively low. Defensible space maintenance and community fire preparedness are equally important protections for this forest-dependent county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sierra County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cooler Mountainous Environment

With an average temperature of 53.1°F, Sierra County is cooler than the national median. Its high elevation creates a climate that is distinct from the rest of the California coast.

One of California's Coldest Regions

Sierra sits well below the California average of 58.7°F. It is one of the wettest counties in the state, receiving 46.3 inches of precipitation annually.

High Precipitation and Heavy Snowfall

Sierra receives 46.3 inches of rain and 26.2 inches of snow, far exceeding neighbors like Siskiyou. It is one of the most precipitation-heavy regions in the entire state.

Snowy Winters with Hot Summer Peaks

Winter temperatures average a cold 39.4°F, contributing to the 26.2 inches of annual snow. Despite this, the county still faces 53 days of extreme heat over 90°F in the summer.

Gear Up for Serious Winter Weather

Snow tires and high-grade home insulation are essential for the snowy 39.4°F winters. Residents should also prepare for the 53 days of high heat by ensuring homes are well-ventilated.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sierra County

via SoilByCounty

High Altitude Soil Characteristics

Sierra County’s specific soil pH and taxonomic data are missing from this current survey. In these high-elevation environments, soils often lean towards acidity compared to the national median of 6.5. Knowing your soil's pH is critical for selecting the right mountain-hardy species for your landscape.

Coarse Textures of the Sierra Nevada

Data regarding the sand, silt, and clay percentages for Sierra County are currently unavailable. Mountain soils are often characterized by high sand and rock content, which provides fast drainage but low nutrient retention. You can assess your soil's workability by checking for grittiness and how well it holds together when wet.

Maximizing Potential in Thin Soils

No specific organic matter or water capacity data is recorded for this county. Gardeners here should strive to improve upon thin mountain soils by targeting the state organic matter average of 3.30%. Adding organic amendments is vital to boost water capacity toward the state average of 0.141 inches per inch.

Rapid Drainage in Rugged Peaks

The drainage class and hydrologic group for Sierra County are not specified in this dataset. Most mountainous regions feature rapid drainage, which can lead to quick drying during the summer months. Monitoring soil moisture closely is essential for maintaining plant health in these rugged environments.

Cold-Hardy Choices for Zone 6b

With a Hardiness Zone of 6b, Sierra County requires plants that can withstand significant winter freezes. Focus on hardy perennials, root vegetables, and berries that thrive in shorter growing seasons. Your high-country garden can be a productive oasis with the right cold-tolerant selections.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sierra County

via LawnByCounty

High-altitude lawn care challenges

Sierra County has a lawn difficulty score of 64.9, which is considerably easier than the national median of 50.0. The USDA Hardiness Zone 6b means you deal with much colder winters than most of California. This cooler environment changes your grass choices but offers a break from the typical California heat stress.

Wet winters and moderate summers

With 46.3 inches of annual precipitation, Sierra County is one of the wettest regions in the state, providing ample natural hydration. You face 53 extreme heat days, which is slightly below the California average but still requires attention. A shorter growing season with 2,642 growing degree days means you have a more compressed window for lawn projects.

Working with mountain soil

While detailed soil metrics aren't available, mountain soils often feature rapid drainage or rocky textures. You should add compost to help your lawn retain some of the 46.3 inches of annual rain during the drier 53 heat days. Keeping your pH in the 6.0 to 7.0 range will help your grass survive the colder winters of Zone 6b.

Abundant water in the Sierras

The county has enjoyed 0 weeks of drought in the past year, thanks to heavy precipitation and snowmelt. Your challenge is managing that water during the 53 extreme heat days to prevent the soil from baking. Aerating in the spring helps the 46.3 inches of annual moisture reach the roots instead of running off the slopes.

Choose cold-hardy varieties

Since you are in Zone 6b, cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass or Fine Fescue are the best fit for your colder winters. The last spring frost doesn't pass until April 28, so wait for the ground to warm before seeding. You have until the first fall frost on October 25 to complete your autumn maintenance and winterization.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sierra County's county score?
Sierra County, California has a composite county score of 52.4 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 Sierra County rank among counties in California?
Sierra County ranks #1 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 Sierra County, California?
The median annual property tax in Sierra County is $2,590, with an effective tax rate of 0.78%. This earns Sierra County a tax score of 55.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sierra County?
The median household income in Sierra County, California is $60,000 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sierra County earns an income score of 39/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sierra County, California a good place to live?
Sierra County scores 52.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in California. The best way to evaluate Sierra 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 Sierra 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.