countyscore
55.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.2Property Tax 90.8Health 84.9

County Report Card

About Wasatch County, Utah

Outperforming the National Median

Wasatch County secures a strong 55.9 composite score, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. This puts it in a higher percentile for overall quality of life across the United States.

A Top Performer in Utah

With its 55.9 score, Wasatch County beats the state average of 53.9. It stands out as one of the more desirable locations in Utah for those seeking a balance of health and wealth.

Elite Incomes and Excellent Health

Wasatch County achieves a nearly perfect income score of 98.2, reflecting a massive $115,146 median household income. It also supports resident well-being with a health score of 84.9.

Extreme Housing Costs and Water Concerns

The housing market is remarkably expensive, resulting in a very low cost score of 2.7 and a median home value of $724,400. Water resource management also presents a challenge, with the water score sitting at just 20.9.

A Haven for the Wealthy

This county is best suited for affluent households who can afford the steep $1,905 median rent. It offers a high-end lifestyle for those who value health and safety more than budget-friendly housing.

Score breakdown

Tax90.8Cost2.7Safety66.7Health84.9Schools42.3Income98.2Risk66.5Water20.9Weather36
🏛90.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠2.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡66.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤84.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓42.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡66.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧20.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱28.9
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

Utah County
Utah
49.6
Summit County
Utah
52.6
Salt Lake County
Utah
35.3
Duchesne County
Utah
40.1
Morgan County
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Davis County
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Carbon County
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Weber County
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38.9

Deep Dives

Wasatch County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Wasatch County

via TaxByCounty

Wasatch County taxes well below national average

Wasatch County's effective tax rate of 0.446% ranks in the nation's lowest quartile, significantly below the 0.92% national median. Despite having the state's highest median home values, residents pay $3,230 annually—still $540 less than the U.S. median of $2,690.

Utah's most affluent, least taxed county

Wasatch ranks third-lowest among Utah's 29 counties with an effective rate of 0.446%, nearly 0.06 percentage points below state average. Homeowners benefit from both lower rates and strong property wealth.

Ties with Washington, undercuts Weber

Wasatch and Washington counties share the region's lowest rate at 0.446%, making them equally attractive tax-wise. Weber County's rate climbs to 0.621%, making Wasatch $616 cheaper annually on comparable homes.

Higher homes, reasonable tax bill

The median home in Wasatch County reaches $724,400—the state's highest—yet the annual property tax is only $3,230. That's just $269 per month, a testament to the county's low tax burden.

Reassessment could yield bigger savings

Even with favorable rates, many Wasatch County homeowners overpay due to outdated or inflated assessments. A free reassessment request through the county assessor could reduce your burden further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wasatch County

via CostByCounty

Wasatch rents strain even high earners

Wasatch County's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio approaches the ceiling of affordability, consuming nearly one-fifth of household income despite median earnings of $115,146—55% above the national average. This mountain resort county commands $1,905 monthly rents, reflecting its desirability as a recreation and second-home destination.

Utah's least affordable rental market

Wasatch County ranks among Utah's least affordable places for renters, with its 19.9% ratio running 3.3 percentage points above the state average of 16.6%. The county's median rent of $1,905 dwarfs the state median of $1,101, making Wasatch an outlier even in a state where housing costs have surged.

Rent premium rivals mountain towns nationwide

At $1,905 monthly, Wasatch County renters pay significantly more than neighbors: Utah County ($1,441), Weber County ($1,269), and Washington County ($1,464). The $464-per-month premium over Utah County reflects Wasatch's status as Utah's priciest rental market outside of metropolitan Salt Lake City.

High income barely keeps pace with costs

Wasatch County's median household income of $115,146 is the state's highest, yet renters still spend 19.9% on housing and owner-occupants spend 19.7% on mortgages. The county's home values average $724,400—the priciest in the region—illustrating how even exceptional incomes feel stretched in this exclusive market.

Wasatch demands the deepest pockets

If you're earning six figures and prioritize mountain living and ski access, Wasatch delivers—but know that your housing costs will run the highest in Utah. Compare Wasatch's 19.9% rent burden against Weber County's 17.5% or Utah County's 17.9% to gauge if the premium location is worth the financial squeeze.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wasatch County

via IncomeByCounty

Wasatch County tops national income rankings

Wasatch County's median household income of $115,146 towers 54% above the national median of $74,755, placing it among the highest-earning counties in the country. This exceptional performance reflects its appeal as a mountain recreation and second-home destination, attracting affluent households.

Utah's highest-earning county by far

Wasatch County leads all Utah counties with a median household income of $115,146, exceeding the state average of $80,176 by $34,970. Its per capita income of $54,096 also surpasses the state average of $35,055 by 54%, signaling exceptional wealth concentration.

Commanding income lead over region

Wasatch County households earn $38,735 more than Washington County ($76,411) and $45,072 more than Wayne County ($70,074). Even compared to affluent Utah County ($96,877), Wasatch residents earn $18,269 more—a substantial premium reflecting the county's exclusive positioning.

High income needed for high-cost living

Wasatch County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% stays just below the affordability threshold, but the median home value of $724,400 demands six times the typical U.S. home price. Strong incomes are essential here; without the county's $115,146 median, housing becomes severely unaffordable.

Elite earners must think strategically

Wasatch County's $115,146 median income positions residents to build serious wealth through tax-advantaged investing, diversified portfolios, and strategic real estate. At this income level, working with a financial advisor to optimize tax efficiency and long-term growth becomes especially valuable.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wasatch County

via CrimeByCounty

Wasatch County Boasts Elite Safety Levels

Wasatch County is exceptionally safe, earning a safety score of 98.8 out of 100. Its total crime rate of 785.6 per 100K is roughly one-third of the national average of 2,385.5.

Ranking High Among Utah Counties

With a safety score above the state average of 98.1, Wasatch ranks as one of Utah's most secure areas. The total crime rate of 785.6 is significantly lower than the state average of 1,204.8.

Outperforming Neighboring Utah County

Wasatch County maintains a lower crime rate than neighboring Utah County, which sees 1,269.2 incidents per 100K. This highlights Wasatch's status as a quiet mountain retreat with minimal criminal activity.

Violent Crime is Rare Here

Violent crime is infrequent at 134.3 per 100K, while property crime sits at 651.3 per 100K. These figures indicate that the few crimes occurring are largely non-confrontational property issues.

Simple Steps to Secure Your Sanctuary

Even in high-safety areas like Wasatch, basic security measures prevent opportunistic property crimes. Locking doors and installing motion lights are effective ways to maintain this peaceful community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Wasatch County

via HealthByCounty

Wasatch County leads on life expectancy

Wasatch County residents live 81.0 years on average—3.2 years longer than the U.S. average of 77.8 years. With only 10.6% experiencing poor or fair health, the county ranks among America's healthiest regions.

State's longest-living county

Wasatch County's 81.0-year life expectancy significantly exceeds Utah's state average of 77.9 years, making it the healthiest county by this measure in the state. Its 10.6% poor/fair health rate is the lowest in Utah.

Clear health advantage over neighbors

Wasatch County's 81.0-year life expectancy is 1.6 years higher than Utah County (79.4) and nearly 6 years higher than Wayne County (75.5). Its low poor/fair health rate stands out dramatically compared to Washington County (14.1%) and Wayne County (17.0%).

Strong primary care, fewer mental health providers

Wasatch County offers 50 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—above the county average—but only 129 mental health providers per 100,000, the lowest ratio in the region. Its 8.3% uninsured rate slightly exceeds the state average of 10.2%, meaning most residents have coverage.

Ensure continuous health coverage

Though Wasatch County has strong health outcomes, maintaining insurance is key to sustaining them. Check healthcare.gov or Utah's Health Insurance Marketplace to confirm your coverage is current and meets your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Wasatch County

via SchoolsByCounty

Compact Education System in Wasatch

Wasatch County maintains a focused educational footprint with 10 total public schools serving 9,416 students. The infrastructure consists primarily of 7 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and one central high school.

Competitive Performance and Balanced Funding

The county achieves a 90.0% graduation rate, which sits comfortably above the national 87.0% benchmark. Spending is highly aligned with state trends, as the $6,831 per-pupil expenditure nearly matches the Utah average of $6,829.

Wasatch District's Unified Approach

The Wasatch District serves nearly the entire county with 9,082 students across 9 schools. Soldier Hollow Charter School provides an alternative option, representing 10% of the county's public school offerings.

Town-Centered Learning Environments

Education here has a distinct 'town' feel, with 9 of the 10 schools located in town settings rather than cities or suburbs. Average enrollment is high at 942 students per school, anchored by the massive 2,531-student Wasatch High.

Relocate to Wasatch's Close-Knit Schools

Families seeking a town-centric lifestyle will find Wasatch County's unified district and high-performing schools an excellent fit. The area's consistent academic results make it a standout choice for long-term residential investment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wasatch County

via RiskByCounty

Wasatch County has very low overall risk

Wasatch County's composite risk score of 33.52 places it in the very low category, roughly equal to the national average. Most hazard types pose minimal threat, though localized risks deserve attention.

Among Utah's safest counties

Wasatch County scores well below the state average of 36.19, ranking among the lowest-risk counties in Utah. Your community enjoys significantly better natural disaster protection than most of the state.

Safer than nearby Utah County

Wasatch County's score of 33.52 is dramatically lower than neighboring Utah County (95.32) and Weber County (87.02). You live in one of the state's more fortunate communities when it comes to natural hazard exposure.

Wildfire remains the main concern

Wildfire risk at 94.21 is your county's primary hazard and stands well above other threats like earthquake risk (58.97). Tornado and flood risks are minimal, scoring 11.83 and 32.35 respectively.

Wildfire insurance is your priority

While your overall risk profile is favorable, wildfire insurance or rider coverage on your homeowners policy is essential given the 94.21 risk score. Standard policies may not fully cover wildfire damage, so verify coverage limits with your agent.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wasatch County

via WeatherByCounty

An Elevated Alpine Environment

At 45.6°F, Wasatch County is significantly cooler than the national median temperature. Its high-elevation climate produces a substantial 19.5 inches of precipitation annually, much of which falls as snow.

One of Utah's Cooler Mountain Counties

Wasatch County stays well below the 48.9°F Utah state average, marking it as one of the state's colder high-altitude regions. It also outpaces the state precipitation average by nearly 6 inches per year.

Colder and Wetter than Surrounding Valleys

The county is over five degrees cooler than neighboring Utah County and receives much more moisture. It shares a similar snowy profile with Weber County but experiences significantly fewer extreme heat days.

A Winter-Dominant Seasonal Cycle

The county endures 74.5 inches of snow annually and a chilly January average of 24.3°F. Summers are notably mild compared to the rest of the state, with only 27 days reaching 90°F or higher.

Focus on Winter Resilience

Heavy-duty winter gear and high-performance home insulation are essential for the long, snowy winters. With few extreme heat days, residents can often rely on natural ventilation during the mild 65.2°F summer months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wasatch County

via SoilByCounty

Mountain Soils and Alkaline Trends

Wasatch County lacks specific local pH and taxonomic data, but it likely mirrors the state’s alkaline average of 7.71. This is notably higher than the national 6.5 median, reflecting the region's mineral-rich geological history. Understanding this balance is the first step toward successful high-altitude cultivation.

Analyzing Mountain Soil Structures

Specific percentages of sand, silt, and clay for Wasatch County are not currently documented. These proportions are vital because they dictate how well the soil retains nutrients and resists compaction. Residents should monitor their soil's feel and behavior during spring thaws to gauge local workability.

Fertility Potential in Alpine Environments

Local organic matter and water capacity figures are unavailable, but the state average of 7.59% organic matter sets a high bar. With a state average water capacity of 0.138 in/in, moisture retention remains a critical factor for mountain growers. Adding organic amendments is a proven way to improve these metrics in alpine soils.

Hydrology in High-Elevation Slopes

Official drainage and hydrologic classifications for this county are not currently available. In mountain regions, drainage varies wildly between valley floors and steep slopes. Proper water management is essential to prevent erosion and ensure stable building sites across the county.

Hardy Growing in Zone 6a

Wasatch County’s Zone 6a designation means a shorter growing season suited for cold-hardy crops like kale, peas, and root vegetables. The cool nights and high altitude can produce exceptionally sweet produce. Embrace the mountain climate by starting seeds indoors to get a head start on the season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wasatch County

via LawnByCounty

Wasatch County's High-Altitude Lawn Outlook

Wasatch County carries a lawn difficulty score of 28.9, placing it right in line with the Utah state average of 28.5. This score is nearly 20 points lower than the national average, reflecting the unique trials of Zone 6a. Higher elevations and shorter seasons mean the margin for error is slim for local gardeners.

Cooler Summers and Short Growing Windows

Wasatch County sees only 27 days of extreme heat, which is much lower than the state average of 43 days. However, the annual precipitation of 19.5 inches still falls short of the 30 inches needed for optimal turf health. Low growing degree days of 1870 signal a shorter, more concentrated period for lawn growth and maintenance.

Preparing Your Wasatch Soil

Limited data on local soil texture and pH makes a home testing kit essential for new lawn projects. Because drainage and nutrient levels vary by elevation, amending with compost can help balance the soil's structure. Understanding your specific site's drainage is the first step toward building a resilient lawn foundation.

Navigating Periodic Dry Spells

The county experienced 40 weeks of drought over the last year, and nearly 32% of the land remains in severe drought. While conditions are less intense than neighboring counties, efficient water use remains a top priority. Mulching around lawn edges and keeping grass at a taller height helps retain soil moisture during dry weeks.

Plan Around a Late Spring Frost

In Zone 6a, cool-season grasses like Fine Fescue or Kentucky Bluegrass perform best in the mountain climate. Wait until after the May 31st frost to begin major planting projects, as the season quickly winds down by the September 20th fall frost. This narrow window requires quick action to ensure turf is established before the cold sets in.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wasatch County's county score?
Wasatch County, Utah has a composite county score of 55.9 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 Wasatch County rank among counties in Utah?
Wasatch County ranks #12 among all counties in Utah 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 Wasatch County, Utah?
The median annual property tax in Wasatch County is $3,230, with an effective tax rate of 0.45%. This earns Wasatch County a tax score of 90.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wasatch County?
The median household income in Wasatch County, Utah is $115,146 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wasatch County earns an income score of 98.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wasatch County, Utah a good place to live?
Wasatch County scores 55.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Utah. The best way to evaluate Wasatch 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 Wasatch 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.