countyscore
45.6
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.4Health 95.2Schools 73.4

County Report Card

About Westchester County, New York

High Costs Impact National Standing

Westchester County scores 45.6, falling below the national median of 50.0. While its services are elite, the extreme cost of living lowers its overall composite rank.

Trailing the New York Average

The county sits below the state average of 47.0 due to significant affordability hurdles. Despite its wealth, it faces structural challenges that impact general livability.

Elite Incomes and World-Class Health

The county earns a near-perfect 98.4 income score with a $118,411 median household income. It also features a top-tier health score of 95.2.

Extreme Costs and High Risk

Westchester’s cost score is just 1.1, with median home values reaching $638,400. Its risk score of 3.8 also highlights significant exposure to social or environmental stressors.

A Hub for High-Earning Professionals

Westchester is ideal for high-income earners who want the best healthcare and schools in the nation. It caters to those for whom lifestyle and opportunity outweigh cost concerns.

Score breakdown

Tax10.1Cost1.1Safety53.7Health95.2Schools73.4Income98.4Risk3.8Water32.4Weather59.7
🏛10.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠1.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡53.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤95.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓73.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡3.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧32.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤59.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨51.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.9
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

Rockland County
New York
42.6
Bronx County
New York
42.6
Bergen County
New Jersey
48
New York County
New York
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Western Connecticut Planning Region
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Nassau County
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Queens County
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Putnam County
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Deep Dives

Westchester County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Westchester County

via TaxByCounty

Westchester's tax rate beats nation

Westchester County's effective tax rate of 1.567% sits below the national median, giving high-value properties a tax-efficiency advantage. The median property tax of $10,001 reflects homes worth $638,400—far above both national and state averages—but the low rate keeps the tax burden manageable for affluent residents.

Lower rate than most New York counties

Westchester County ranks in the bottom tier for effective tax rates among New York's 62 counties, a significant advantage for a high-wealth area. Its 1.567% rate undercuts the state average of 2.046%, making Westchester a tax haven relative to upstate regions.

Favorable compared to upstate peers

Westchester's 1.567% rate essentially ties Warren County (1.530%) while significantly undercutting Washington County (2.082%), Wayne County (2.551%), and Wyoming County (2.299%). Though Westchester homes cost 3-4 times more, the lower rate provides substantial tax savings for luxury property owners.

Median home costs $10,001 yearly

On Westchester County's median home value of $638,400, you'll pay approximately $10,001 in annual property taxes—about $833 per month. While the absolute dollar amount is high, the effective rate of 1.567% offers relative efficiency compared to other New York counties.

High values make appeals worthwhile

Even small percentage reductions on Westchester properties yield significant savings; a 5% assessment overcharge costs $500+ annually on the median home. Filing a free assessment appeal is highly recommended for any Westchester homeowner, as overvaluation is common in fast-appreciating markets.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Westchester County

via CostByCounty

Westchester Rents Pinch Even High Earners

Westchester County's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national average, meaning even residents here—with a median household income of $118,411, the highest among surveyed counties—spend more on rent than typical Americans. At $1,876 monthly, Westchester's median rent is more than double rural upstate counties, reflecting its position as a wealthy suburban appendage to New York City.

New York's Least Affordable County

Westchester ranks as New York's most expensive market with a 19.0% rent-to-income ratio above the state average of 17.6%. Median rent of $1,876 per month nearly doubles the state average of $1,133, making Westchester a clear exception in the affordability conversation.

Far Pricier Than Every Upstate County

Westchester's $1,876 rent dwarfs all surveyed upstate counties: Warren ($1,089), Washington ($1,000), Wayne ($929), Wyoming ($782), and Yates ($802) all fall well below half Westchester's cost. This dramatic gap reflects Westchester's status as an affluent metro-adjacent market rather than a rural region.

High Earners Still Strain for Housing

Despite the county's elevated median income of $118,411, renters commit 19.0% of earnings to rent, while owners face a steep $2,882 monthly payment for homes averaging $638,400. Westchester's expensive housing absorbs a larger income share than upstate alternatives, even for well-compensated residents.

Budget Carefully if Relocating to Westchester

Westchester offers proximity to New York City and affluent communities, but housing costs demand serious financial planning with $1,876 monthly rent and a 19.0% affordability ratio. If you're relocating from an upstate county, expect to nearly double your housing budget; if affordability drives your decision, the rural north offers far better value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Westchester County

via IncomeByCounty

Westchester ranks among America's wealthiest

Westchester County's median household income of $118,411 soars $43,656 above the national median of $74,755, placing it firmly in the top 5% of U.S. counties. This reflects a highly educated, economically dynamic region anchored in finance, healthcare, and corporate headquarters near New York City.

New York's wealthiest county by far

Westchester's median household income of $118,411 ranks it 1st among New York's 62 counties, towering $42,978 above the state average of $76,433. The county is the undisputed wealth leader in New York, more than $40,000 ahead of its closest peers.

Westchester dwarfs nearby upstate counties

Westchester's $118,411 income exceeds Warren County ($78,239) by $40,172, Washington County ($72,342) by $46,069, and Wayne County ($73,914) by $44,497. The vast income gap reflects fundamentally different regional economies: suburban NYC wealth versus rural Upstate resilience.

High income cushions steep housing costs

Westchester households spend 19.0% of income on rent—above the 30% affordability standard but manageable given exceptional earnings. However, median home values of $638,400 mean homeownership requires substantial wealth; many median-income families face barriers despite high absolute earnings.

Leverage premium incomes for wealth building

Westchester's $118,411 median income creates extraordinary capacity for investment, estate planning, and generational wealth creation. Maximize tax-advantaged retirement accounts, explore real estate investment beyond primary residence, and consider working with a financial advisor to optimize your wealth strategy in this high-income environment.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Westchester County

via CrimeByCounty

Westchester Maintains Strong National Safety Standing

Westchester County reports 1,049.0 crimes per 100,000 residents, a rate far lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This translates to a safety score of 98.3, signaling a secure environment relative to the rest of the country.

Matching the New York State Average

Westchester's safety score of 98.3 perfectly mirrors the New York state average. Its total crime rate of 1,049.0 per 100,000 is slightly below the statewide average of 1,074.4.

Higher Activity Compared to Rural Neighbors

Westchester's crime rate of 1,049.0 is higher than surrounding rural counties like Wayne at 930.7 or Wyoming at 513.2. This higher frequency reflects its status as a densely populated metropolitan hub with 42 reporting agencies.

Violent Crime Trends in Westchester

The county's violent crime rate of 150.6 per 100,000 is higher than the state average of 125.0 and the rates of nearby rural counties. Property crime accounts for 898.4 incidents per 100,000, which is still well below the national property crime rate of 2,015.7.

Stay Vigilant in Denser Communities

With property crime as the primary concern, Westchester homeowners benefit from robust alarm systems and neighborhood watch programs. Maintaining visibility around entry points remains a key strategy for suburban safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Westchester County

via HealthByCounty

Westchester County leads national health outcomes

At 82.0 years, Westchester County residents live nearly 6 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years—among the longest lifespans in America. Just 12.8% report poor or fair health, reflecting exceptional population wellness and healthcare quality.

New York's healthiest county

Westchester's 82.0-year life expectancy significantly exceeds New York State's 77.9-year average, making it the state's health leader by a substantial margin. This 4.1-year advantage reflects top-tier healthcare access, wealth, and prevention infrastructure.

Vastly outpaces regional health metrics

Westchester residents live 5.4 years longer than Washington County residents and enjoy 490 mental health providers per 100,000—more than double most neighbors. This healthcare abundance directly translates to superior health outcomes across the region.

Exceptional access across all care types

Westchester boasts 132 primary care providers per 100,000 people and a 5.3% uninsured rate matching the state average, creating ideal conditions for preventive and continuous care. High provider density and universal coverage contribute directly to the county's remarkable 82-year life expectancy.

Maintain Westchester's health advantage

Even in Westchester's high-access environment, uninsured residents miss preventive opportunities that keep this county healthy. Visit healthcare.gov or NY's marketplace to confirm your coverage and stay on track with preventive care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Westchester County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Premier Educational Powerhouse

Westchester County operates a massive educational network of 253 public schools serving over 141,000 students. With 51 distinct school districts, the county offers an incredible variety of choices, including 144 elementary schools and 17 dedicated special education facilities. This scale makes it one of the most significant and diverse education hubs in the United States.

Elite Performance and Significant Investment

Westchester leads with a graduation rate of 89.5% and a high composite school score of 78.3, far exceeding state and national medians. This success is fueled by an exceptional per-pupil expenditure of $18,577, which is nearly $4,000 more than the state average. These figures demonstrate the county's deep financial commitment to maintaining top-tier academic standards.

Major Districts and Charter Options

Yonkers City School District is the largest in the county, managing 40 schools and 24,013 students. New Rochelle City follows with 9,906 students, including the massive New Rochelle High School which enrolls over 3,000 pupils. Westchester also features three charter schools, offering alternative public education paths to roughly 1.2% of the student population.

Diverse Suburban Campus Environments

The vast majority of schools (231) are located in suburban settings, offering the manicured campuses and extensive facilities typical of the region. While the average school size is 558 students, the county features everything from small specialized centers to large high schools like White Plains Senior High. This variety ensures that every student can find a school size and locale that fits their learning style.

Find Your Home in a Top District

Westchester's reputation for world-class schools is a primary driver for the local real estate market. Families specifically seek out homes in districts like Mamaroneck and Scarsdale for their high graduation rates and abundant resources. Buying a home here is often seen as an investment in a child's long-term academic and professional success.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Westchester County

via RiskByCounty

Westchester faces significantly elevated risk

With a composite risk score of 96.18, Westchester County ranks as relatively high risk—well above the national average and among the most hazard-exposed counties in New York. This elevation reflects multiple concurrent threats including extreme flood vulnerability (97.96) and elevated earthquake and hurricane exposure.

Highest risk among six-county sample

Westchester County's 96.18 score towers above New York's state average of 69.42—a gap of nearly 27 points that positions it as one of the state's most at-risk counties. Within the comparison set, Westchester faces roughly 40% more hazard exposure than its safer neighbors.

Dramatically riskier than all regional peers

Westchester County's 96.18 score dwarfs neighboring Warren County (62.31), Washington County (56.62), and Wayne County (56.27), indicating unique geographic vulnerabilities. This dramatic disparity—nearly 40 points above regional neighbors—reflects Westchester's proximity to coastlines, its urban density, and seismic activity.

Flood, earthquake, and hurricane dangers critical

Flood risk (97.96) reaches near-maximum levels in Westchester County, making it the county's defining hazard; earthquake risk (94.78) and hurricane risk (93.62) compound these threats significantly. Tornado risk (72.71) also exceeds most regional peers, creating a multi-hazard exposure environment unlike surrounding counties.

Comprehensive insurance coverage is non-negotiable

Westchester County residents must obtain flood insurance immediately—this is not optional given your 97.96 flood risk score. Layer in earthquake insurance and ensure hurricane/wind coverage is maximized in your homeowners policy; these three protections address over 85% of your disaster vulnerability.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Westchester County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warmer Profile than the National Median

Westchester County maintains an annual average temperature of 51.6°F, placing it slightly below the national median for temperate zones. While it experiences traditional Northeast cycles, it remains warmer than many of its northern counterparts.

One of New York's Warmest Counties

At 51.6°F, Westchester sits more than four degrees above the New York state average of 47.4°F. This makes it one of the milder regions in the state, benefitting from its coastal proximity and southern location.

Wetter Conditions than Inland Neighbors

The county receives 49.8 inches of annual precipitation, which is significantly higher than the state average of 43.3 inches. This surplus moisture distinguishes it from drier neighboring regions further inland.

A Balance of Summer Heat and Snow

Westchester experiences 13 extreme heat days over 90°F each year, largely during its 71.3°F average summer. Winter brings 36.1 inches of snow as temperatures drop to a chilly January average of 29.1°F.

Preparing for Humidity and Winter Chill

Residents should maintain efficient cooling systems to handle 13 days of extreme heat and July highs of 73.6°F. Robust drainage and winter tires are also wise given the 49.8 inches of annual rainfall and seasonal snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Westchester County

via SoilByCounty

Ultra-Acidic Soils in the Hudson Valley

Westchester County has an average pH of 3.14, representing some of the most acidic soil in the state. This is dramatically lower than the New York average of 5.11 and the national median of 6.5. Such intense acidity often indicates a landscape dominated by organic peat or heavy forest litter.

Low Clay and High Organic Influence

The mineral composition is 29.2% sand and 24.8% silt, but it is notably low in clay at just 6.0%. This low clay content means the soil lacks a heavy mineral grip, making it feel light and porous. However, the extreme organic levels dominate the physical behavior of the soil more than the mineral particles do.

Unrivaled Organic Matter Richness

Westchester boasts a massive organic matter content of 29.86%, nearly double the New York average of 17.01%. This richness drives an available water capacity of 0.178 in/in, which is very close to the state average of 0.182 in/in. This soil is packed with carbon, making it a powerful but chemically complex medium for plants.

Complex Drainage in Organic Soils

While official drainage classes are not provided, the high organic matter and low clay suggest a soil that can act like a sponge. It likely holds moisture well but may become saturated in low-lying areas due to the lack of mineral structure. Proper site planning is essential for any construction or landscape project in this region.

Vibrant Growing in Hardiness Zone 7a

Zone 7a offers a long, warm growing season that is perfect for a wide variety of ornamental and edible plants. To succeed in this ultra-acidic soil, focus on acid-loving species or use lime to balance the pH for typical garden vegetables. Your soil is incredibly rich in organic material, providing a rare and fertile head start for any gardener.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Westchester County

via LawnByCounty

Westchester's High-Maintenance Turf

With a lawn difficulty score of 50.9, Westchester is one of the more challenging counties in New York to keep green. This Zone 7a area faces longer growing seasons and harsher soil conditions than the national median of 50.0.

High Rainfall and Intense Growth

Westchester sees 49.8 inches of rain annually, well above the state average. However, the 3,036 growing degree days and 13 extreme heat days mean the grass grows faster and faces more heat stress than in any other county in this group.

Extreme Acidity in Suburban Soil

The soil pH is remarkably low at 3.14, far below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for healthy turf. Because the soil has only 6.0% clay, it lacks the natural capacity to buffer against this extreme acidity, making heavy lime applications essential.

Drought Stress in the South

Despite high rainfall, the county spent 23 weeks in drought last year and is currently 100.0% abnormally dry. High heat and rapid growth rates can quickly deplete soil moisture, requiring smart irrigation during the peak summer months.

Leveraging a Long Growing Season

The early April 20 frost date allows for a long spring seeding window. Heat-tolerant cool-season blends are best for Zone 7a, as they must withstand the long summer before the first frost arrives on October 26.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Westchester County's county score?
Westchester County, New York has a composite county score of 45.6 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 Westchester County rank among counties in New York?
Westchester County ranks #35 among all counties in New York 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 Westchester County, New York?
The median annual property tax in Westchester County is $10,001, with an effective tax rate of 1.57%. This earns Westchester County a tax score of 10.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Westchester County?
The median household income in Westchester County, New York is $118,411 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Westchester County earns an income score of 98.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Westchester County, New York a good place to live?
Westchester County scores 45.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #35 in New York. The best way to evaluate Westchester 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 Westchester County with other counties side by side.

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🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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