countyscore
36.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 74.9Health 74.6Soil Quality 67.7

County Report Card

About Spokane County, Washington

Spokane County trails the national median

With a composite score of 36.8, Spokane County falls below the national median of 50.0. Low safety scores and moderate affordability drive this positioning.

Performing below the Washington state average

The county's 36.8 score is notably lower than the state average of 44.1. While it serves as an eastern hub, it faces more livability challenges than many western peers.

Solid healthcare and income scores

Spokane County performs well in health (74.6) and income (74.9). These scores are supported by a median household income of $73,513 and a strong network of medical facilities.

Significant safety and risk concerns

A safety score of 2.6 and a risk score of 10.0 are the county's biggest hurdles. These figures suggest that crime and environmental hazards are prominent issues for local residents.

A healthcare-centric hub for urban dwellers

This county is well-suited for healthcare workers or those needing frequent medical access. It appeals to residents who want urban amenities and can navigate the safety and risk trade-offs.

2040608010048.113.92.674.651.874.91063.841.8Tax48.1Cost13.9Safety2.6Health74.6Schools51.8Income74.9Risk10Water63.8Weather41.836.8/100
This county
National avg
2 above average4 below average

Spokane County DNA

Foverall

How Spokane County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Spokane County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (74.6/100) but notably weak in Safety (2.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
48.1
Cost
13.9-34.1
Safety
2.6-52.4
Health
74.6+24.599999999999994
Schools
51.8
Income
74.9+23.900000000000006
Risk
10-37
Water
63.8
Weather
41.8-14.200000000000003
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$370,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,200/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$370,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$48,000/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum5.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $73,513/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

17.1

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Kootenai County
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45.2
Benewah County
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46.5
Lincoln County
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60.9
Stevens County
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Bonner County
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Pend Oreille County
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54.7
Ferry County
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Whitman County
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49.8

Deep Dives

Spokane County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Spokane County

via TaxByCounty

Spokane County taxes rank high

Spokane County's effective tax rate of 0.863% exceeds the national median of 0.750%, placing it in the 67th percentile nationally. The median property tax of $3,196 is 19% higher than the national median of $2,690.

Above-average in Washington

Spokane County's 0.863% effective rate ranks well above Washington's state average of 0.761%, placing it in the upper quarter of the state's counties. The median property tax of $3,196 exceeds the state median of $3,028 by 5%.

Highest in eastern Washington

Spokane County's 0.863% rate significantly exceeds nearby Pend Oreille County (0.665%) and Skamania County (0.715%), making it the highest-tax county in eastern Washington. This reflects Spokane's status as the region's economic hub.

Pay $3,196 on median home

On Spokane County's median home value of $370,500, you'll pay approximately $3,196 in annual property taxes. Both mortgaged and non-mortgaged homeowners face similar bills in the $3,090–$3,250 range.

Assessment appeals are worth pursuing

Spokane County homeowners should review their property assessments for overvaluation and file appeals when justified. Even modest reductions yield meaningful annual savings on the county's above-average tax rates.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Spokane County

via CostByCounty

Spokane County's Moderate Affordability Challenge

Spokane County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.6% slightly exceeds the national average, indicating a moderate housing affordability challenge. With median household income of $73,513—just below the national average—and rent at $1,200/month, Spokane residents face affordability pressures similar to the typical American household.

Mid-Range Housing Costs for Washington

Spokane County's 19.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks slightly above Washington's 18.8% state average, placing it in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. At $1,200/month, median rent matches the state median exactly, making Spokane a representative Washington housing market.

Spokane: Eastern Washington's Hub

Spokane County's $1,200 rent undercuts western Washington's Puget Sound counties (Pierce $1,722, Snohomish $1,866) significantly, though it runs $414 above rural Pend Oreille. With median income of $73,513, Spokane offers the region's best balance of urban opportunity and relative affordability east of the Cascades.

Eastern Washington's Housing Math

Spokane County renters spend 19.6% of income on rent ($1,200/month), while owners dedicate 22.2% to mortgage and costs ($1,363/month). The median home value of $370,500 sits below state averages, keeping ownership achievable for households near the median income.

Spokane: The Eastern Washington Standard

Spokane County delivers reliable housing affordability as eastern Washington's largest metro, with costs well below Puget Sound rivals. Relocators seeking urban amenities with better affordability should compare Spokane favorably against Pierce and Snohomish, though Skamania and Pend Oreille offer even greater value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Spokane County

via IncomeByCounty

Spokane County near U.S. income average

Spokane County's median household income of $73,513 sits just 1.7% below the national median of $74,755, placing the county near the U.S. midpoint. Eastern Washington's largest urban center supports competitive wages across healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors.

Below-average but steady earnings

Spokane County ranks 29th among Washington's 39 counties, trailing the state average of $76,363 by $2,850. The modest gap reflects Spokane's role as a mid-sized regional economy distinct from Puget Sound wealth concentrations.

Mid-range in statewide comparison

Spokane County's $73,513 income trails most western Washington peers—including Snohomish ($107,982), Pierce ($96,632), Skagit ($85,474), and Skamania ($90,085)—but leads Pend Oreille ($63,750) and Pacific ($62,350). The gap reflects urban-rural and regional economic divides.

Rent-to-income ratio above comfort zone

Spokane County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.6% is manageable but climbing toward affordability pressure. With a median home value of $370,500, homeownership requires approximately 5 years of median income—achievable but requiring discipline.

Build wealth through consistency

Spokane County residents earning the median $73,513 should prioritize steady retirement contributions and emergency savings to weather housing cost pressures. Exploring employer benefits, education investments, and long-term asset building can boost income and financial security over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Spokane County

via CrimeByCounty

Spokane County Faces High Crime Rates

Spokane County reports a total crime rate of 4,396.2 per 100,000, which is nearly double the national average of 2,385.5. The county’s safety score is 93.1, reflecting significant local safety concerns.

Spokane Scores Below State Safety Levels

The county's safety score of 93.1 falls below the Washington state average of 96.2. Seven reporting agencies manage a crime rate that is nearly double the state's average total crime rate of 2,377.2.

Highest Crime Rate in Eastern Washington

Spokane County's crime rate of 4,396.2 is much higher than that of its neighbor, Pend Oreille County. As the region’s largest urban center, it experiences significantly more reported incidents than the surrounding rural areas.

Analyzing Property and Violent Crime

Violent crime is 417.1 per 100,000, exceeding the national average of 369.8. Property crime is very high at 3,979.1, nearly twice the national rate, making theft prevention a top priority for residents.

Taking Steps to Secure Spokane Homes

Given the high property crime rate, Spokane residents should prioritize comprehensive home security systems and bright exterior lighting. Keeping valuables out of cars and locking all gates can help reduce the chance of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Spokane County

via SchoolsByCounty

The Educational Heart of Eastern WA

Spokane County serves 75,841 students through 182 schools across 17 districts. The infrastructure is diverse, featuring 90 elementary schools, 46 high schools, and a growing number of alternative learning options.

Strong Graduation with Efficient Spending

Spokane delivers an 85.5% graduation rate, nearly reaching the national average of 87% and besting the state average. The county achieves these results with per-pupil spending of $8,962, which is slightly below the state average.

Spokane and Central Valley Anchors

Spokane School District is the largest with 28,714 students, while Central Valley and Mead also serve large populations. The county is unique for hosting three charter schools, though they represent less than 2% of the total school count.

Urban Hubs and High Enrollment

Most students attend schools in city settings, with an average school size of 431 students. Mead Senior High is the county's largest campus with 1,809 students, reflecting the region's bustling, urban-centered educational feel.

Invest in a Spokane Education

Spokane County offers some of the best graduation rates in the state alongside diverse school types. Start your home search today to take advantage of the high-quality public education available in this vibrant region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Spokane County

via RiskByCounty

Spokane County faces moderate disaster risk

Spokane County scores 89.98 on the composite risk scale, well above Washington's state average of 70.01 and in the relatively moderate risk category nationally. This means Spokane residents face more frequent or severe natural hazard exposure than the typical American county. The county's large population and geographic diversity create multiple interconnected disaster threats concentrated in specific hazard types.

Fifth-riskiest county in Washington

Spokane County ranks fifth statewide for overall disaster risk, behind Pierce (98.54), Snohomish (97.87), Pacific (92.75), and Skagit (88.77) counties. Spokane's composite score of 89.98 reflects exceptionally high wildfire risk (96.56), significant flood risk (91.60), and notable tornado risk (42.68). The county's eastern Washington location creates a distinctly different hazard profile from coastal counties, with wildfire dominating rather than earthquake threats.

Riskiest in eastern Washington region

Spokane County's 89.98 score substantially exceeds neighboring Pend Oreille County (28.02) to the north and most other eastern Washington counties, making it the region's clear risk leader. Spokane's wildfire risk (96.56) is the highest east of the Cascades and comparable to western Washington's seismic threats. Yakima County to the south has a similar wildfire-dominated profile but lower overall composite risk, while Grant and Lincoln counties are substantially safer.

Wildfires, floods, and tornadoes collide

Wildfire risk dominates at 96.56, making Spokane County one of Washington's most fire-prone regions—exceeded only by Skamania County (93.92)—due to extensive forestlands and summer drought conditions typical of eastern Washington. Flood risk (91.60) affects the Spokane River and tributary systems, particularly during spring snowmelt and occasional severe winter storms. Tornado risk (42.68) is surprisingly significant, comparable to Pierce County and reflecting the region's thunderstorm exposure during spring and early summer.

Wildfire insurance and flood preparedness

Spokane County homeowners should ensure standard homeowners policies include adequate wildfire coverage and understand exclusions related to forest fire damage—the county's 96.56 wildfire risk makes this critical. Obtain flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program if your property is in the Spokane River floodplain or other mapped flood zones. Create defensible space around your home by clearing dead trees and brush within 30 feet, use fire-resistant roofing materials, and establish an evacuation plan for fire season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Spokane County

via WaterByCounty

Spokane County Maintains Strong Compliance Levels

The county earns a Grade B with 26 health violations recorded over the last five years. With a rate of 4.3 per 100,000 residents, Spokane stays well below the state average of 113.4. These numbers indicate that most water systems are functioning within safety limits.

Federal Assessment for Spokane Watersheds Pending

Spokane County's water bodies are not yet categorized in the federal §303(d) impairment assessment. Because of this, no official data on impairment causes or failure percentages is available through the EPA's ATTAINS portal. Local authorities continue to track river health through independent regional programs.

Targeted Monitoring Tracks Emerging Contaminants

The county has 15 monitoring sites that have recorded ,1549 measurements recently. A significant portion of this data focuses on PFAS and other perfluorinated alkyl substances, alongside nutrients. This specialized monitoring helps the county proactively address modern chemical concerns.

Spokane River Flows Above Typical Levels

The Spokane River below Nine Mile Dam is currently flowing at 9,200 cfs, which is 142% of its typical long-term mean. This high volume reflects significant activity within its 5,220 square mile drainage area. The current flow is robust and well above historical seasonal averages.

Be Aware of PFAS Monitoring Results

Since local monitoring is heavily focused on PFAS, residents should review their annual water quality reports for these specific compounds. The Spokane River's high flow at 142% of typical levels is beneficial for source water but may affect seasonal treatment processes. Maintain awareness of the 26 recorded violations by checking for system-specific updates.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Spokane County

via WeatherByCounty

The Inland Empire's Sharp Seasons

Spokane County averages 47.0°F annually, which is significantly colder than the national median. Its 18.4 inches of annual precipitation is much lower than the national average, marking it as a semi-arid climate.

Colder and Drier than Western Washington

The county's 47.0°F annual temperature is nearly three degrees colder than the state average of 49.9°F. Its 18.4 inches of rain is less than half the state average, reflecting its position east of the Cascades.

Warmer and Drier than Pend Oreille

Spokane County is roughly one degree warmer than its northern neighbor, Pend Oreille. It receives nearly 10 inches less annual precipitation, but shares a similar pattern of hot summers and snowy winters.

Hot Summers Meet Snowy Winters

Spokane faces 22 days of extreme heat over 90°F and a January average of just 29.2°F. The winter season is defined by 46.8 inches of annual snowfall, requiring significant winter preparation.

Equip Your Home for All Extremes

Both high-efficiency heating and air conditioning are essential here due to the 22 heat days and sub-freezing winters. Residents also need dedicated snow removal equipment to manage nearly 4 feet of annual snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Spokane County

via SoilByCounty

Spokane's Acidic Ground

Spokane County has an average soil pH of 5.59, leaning significantly more acidic than the state average of 6.20. This value sits nearly a full point below the national median of 6.5. Gardeners may need to add lime to support pH-sensitive crops.

A Silty, Smooth Texture

The soil composition features 30.6% silt and 18.4% sand, with a very low clay content of only 7.8%. This high silt percentage gives the soil a smooth texture that is easy to work but can be prone to erosion if left uncovered. It provides a fine-grained medium for root growth.

Above Average Organic Content

The soil is rich with 33.28% organic matter, more than doubling the Washington state average of 14.85%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity of 0.181 in/in is slightly below the state average of 0.194. This means the soil is fertile but requires consistent irrigation.

Water Storage and Flow

While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the low clay content suggests the soil avoids heavy compaction and waterlogging. The available water capacity is respectable but slightly lower than the state norm, highlighting the need for good water management. Proper mulching can help retain that precious moisture.

Nurturing Zone 6b Gardens

Spokane County's Hardiness Zone 6b supports a variety of hardy vegetables and perennials. The exceptionally high organic matter provides a wonderful foundation for high-yield food gardens and beautiful landscapes. Start your growing journey in this rich, inland soil today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Spokane County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty in Eastern Washington

Spokane County presents significant challenges with a lawn difficulty score of 32.5, well below the state and national averages. As a USDA Hardiness Zone 6b region, it faces much colder winters and hotter, drier summers than Western Washington. Success here requires a more technical approach to lawn care and water management.

Hot Summers and Low Rainfall

With only 18.4 inches of annual precipitation, Spokane is significantly drier than the 30-50 inch ideal range. The 22 extreme heat days and 1,933 growing degree days mean your grass will face heavy stress throughout the summer. You must be prepared for a rigorous irrigation schedule to keep turf alive through the heat.

Acidic and Low-Clay Soils

The soil in Spokane is slightly acidic with a pH of 5.59 and has a low clay content of only 7.8%. This texture means the soil doesn't hold water or nutrients as well as heavier soils, making regular fertilization and watering crucial. You may need to apply lime to bring the pH closer to the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for better nutrient uptake.

Widespread Drought Conditions

Currently, 100% of Spokane County is classified as abnormally dry, following 38 weeks of drought over the last year. Given the low annual rainfall, water conservation is essential for sustainable lawn care. Consider xeriscaping or choosing drought-hardy grass blends to reduce your total water consumption.

Short Growing Window in Zone 6b

Cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass are standard, but they require significant summer care in this zone. Your primary growing window is between the May 10 spring frost and the September 26 fall frost. Aim to seed in late August so the grass can establish its roots before the first autumn freeze arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spokane County's county score?
Spokane County, Washington has a composite county score of 36.8 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 Spokane County rank among counties in Washington?
Spokane County ranks #33 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 Spokane County, Washington?
The median annual property tax in Spokane County is $3,196, with an effective tax rate of 0.86%. This earns Spokane County a tax score of 48.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Spokane County?
The median household income in Spokane County, Washington is $73,513 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Spokane County earns an income score of 74.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Spokane County, Washington a good place to live?
Spokane County scores 36.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #33 in Washington. The best way to evaluate Spokane 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 Spokane County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.