countyscore
38
County Score
Income & Jobs 91.5Health 76.1Property Tax 55.8

County Report Card

About Yolo County, California

Yolo lags behind the nation

Yolo County's composite score of 38.0 sits well below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the bottom 30th percentile nationwide. This gap reflects serious affordability and safety challenges that outweigh the county's significant income advantages.

Below average among California counties

Yolo ranks just below the California state average of 40.9, placing it near the middle of the pack statewide. While not the worst-performing county, it underperforms relative to California's most livable regions.

Strong incomes anchor Yolo's profile

With a median household income of $88,818 and an income score of 91.5, Yolo residents earn significantly above both state and national norms. The county also maintains a respectable health score of 76.1 and a moderate tax burden of 0.769%.

Housing costs and safety grip Yolo

The county's critical weak points are housing affordability (cost score: 3.0) with median homes at $593,800, and public safety (score: 9.7). These two factors severely drag down overall livability despite strong income levels that cannot offset such high housing costs.

Best suited for high-income professionals

Yolo works best for affluent families, especially those with UC Davis connections or professional careers, who can absorb six-figure housing costs. Those prioritizing safety, affordability, or family-friendly schools should look elsewhere in California.

Score breakdown

Tax55.8Cost3Safety9.7Health76.1Schools53Income91.5Risk8.6Water45.6Weather46.3
🏛55.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼91.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡9.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤76.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡8.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧45.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨49.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.1
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

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Sacramento County
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Solano County
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Colusa County
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Contra Costa County
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Yuba County
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Lake County
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Deep Dives

Yolo County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Yolo County

via TaxByCounty

Yolo's taxes run higher than most U.S. counties

Yolo County's effective tax rate of 0.769% sits well above the national median of 0.714%, placing it in the upper half of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax here is $4,567 annually—70% higher than the national median of $2,690—reflecting both higher home values and a steeper local tax rate.

Yolo ranks in top half statewide

At 0.769%, Yolo's effective rate exceeds California's state average of 0.714%, making it one of the pricier counties to own property in the state. The median tax bill of $4,567 runs 13% above the state average of $4,045, despite relatively modest home values for the region.

Yolo outpaces nearby Sacramento and Solano

Yolo's 0.769% rate is notably higher than neighboring Sacramento County and Solano County, both closer to the state average. Homeowners in Yolo pay roughly $1,700 more annually than those in comparably valued homes just across the county line.

Buy here? Expect $4,567 yearly tax

A typical Yolo County home valued at $593,800 generates an estimated annual property tax bill of $4,567 without mortgage-related increases. Those with mortgages may owe closer to $5,008 when tax and insurance reserves are pooled into monthly escrow payments.

Challenge inflated assessments and save

Many Yolo County homeowners are overassessed relative to their property's true market value, especially after recent market downturns. Filing an appeal with the county assessor is free and can often result in lower valuations and immediate tax savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Yolo County

via CostByCounty

Yolo's rent burden tops U.S. average

Yolo County renters spend 23.7% of their income on housing, outpacing the national median of roughly 20%. This gap widens when you consider that Yolo's median household income of $88,818 is 19% above the national average of $74,755, yet housing costs still take a larger bite.

Above-average affordability for California

Yolo's rent-to-income ratio of 23.7% sits slightly above California's state average of 22.4%, placing it in the middle range across the state's 58 counties. The county's median rent of $1,757 exceeds the state average of $1,618, reflecting broader regional pressure in Northern California.

Pricier than nearby Yuba County

Renters in Yolo pay $548 more monthly than those in neighboring Yuba County ($1,757 vs. $1,209), a 45% premium for comparable geography. Homebuyers face similar disparity: Yolo's median home value of $593,800 outpaces Yuba's $380,000 by over $200,000.

Housing claims nearly a quarter of income

Between rent ($1,757) and ownership costs ($1,966), housing consumes 23.7% of the typical Yolo household's $88,818 annual income. That leaves renters and buyers with substantially less discretionary income compared to areas where housing costs hover closer to 20% of earnings.

Weighing Yolo for your next home?

If affordability is your priority, compare Yolo's 23.7% rent-to-income ratio against nearby alternatives like Yuba County (19.8%) before committing. A move to lower-cost neighboring counties could free up hundreds of dollars monthly, though proximity to UC Davis and regional amenities may justify Yolo's premium for some households.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Yolo County

via IncomeByCounty

Yolo's income tops the nation

Yolo County's median household income of $88,818 outpaces the national median by $14,063, placing it well above the typical American household. This puts Yolo in the upper tier of U.S. counties, reflecting the economic strength of the region anchored by UC Davis and state government employment.

Strong ranking in California

Yolo's median income of $88,818 exceeds California's state average of $87,001, positioning the county in the upper half of California's 58 counties. This above-average standing reflects the region's diversified economy and higher education presence.

Outearning nearby Yuba County

Yolo County households earn $15,505 more annually ($88,818 vs. $73,313) compared to neighboring Yuba County. This 21% income advantage reflects Yolo's stronger employment base in education, government, and professional services.

Housing costs remain manageable

Yolo residents dedicate 23.7% of income to rent, slightly above the national guideline of 20% but sustainable for most households. With median homes valued at $593,800, the county's higher incomes provide meaningful purchasing power, though first-time buyers still face affordability challenges.

Build on Yolo's income advantage

Above-average household incomes create opportunity: prioritize building emergency savings equal to 3–6 months of expenses, then explore tax-advantaged retirement accounts and investment portfolios. Yolo's stable employment in education and public service makes it an ideal time to lock in long-term financial goals like homeownership or wealth diversification.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Yolo County

via CrimeByCounty

Yolo County Crime Rates Exceed National Averages

Yolo County records a total crime rate of 2818.4 per 100K residents, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite these figures, the county maintains a high safety score of 95.5 out of 100.

Safety Levels Trail Slightly Behind California Average

The county's safety score of 95.5 sits just below the California state average of 96.3. Local law enforcement reports a total crime rate roughly 20% higher than the statewide average of 2355.2 per 100K.

Higher Incident Rates Than Regional Neighbors

Yolo's total crime rate of 2818.4 per 100K significantly exceeds neighboring Yuba County’s rate of 1875.0. While Yolo faces more property-related issues, it maintains a competitive safety profile within the Central Valley.

Property Crime Drives Local Incident Totals

Property crime accounts for 2519.1 incidents per 100K, which is higher than the national average of 2,015.7. However, the violent crime rate of 299.3 remains well below the national benchmark of 369.8.

Focusing on Home Security and Awareness

Since property crime makes up the majority of local offenses, residents should prioritize securing entry points and using smart surveillance. Staying vigilant and well-lit helps mitigate the risks of theft in Yolo County neighborhoods.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Yolo County

via HealthByCounty

Yolo residents live longer than most

At 79.9 years, Yolo County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years by more than three years. The county's 19.4% poor or fair health rate also beats the national average of 21%, signaling better overall wellness than much of the country.

Among California's healthiest counties

Yolo County ranks in the upper tier statewide, with a life expectancy 1.4 years above California's 78.5-year average. Its uninsured rate of 5.6% is notably lower than the state average of 7.2%, reflecting strong health coverage access.

Clear health advantage over Yuba

Yolo County's residents live nearly 5 years longer than Yuba County residents (79.9 vs. 75.0 years), and the county maintains better provider access with 124 primary care providers per 100,000 residents compared to Yuba's 20 per 100,000. This disparity directly impacts how quickly residents can see doctors and address health concerns.

Strong mental health resources

With 458 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Yolo County offers robust psychiatric and behavioral health support. The 5.6% uninsured rate means most residents have financial protection when seeking care, though some gaps remain for vulnerable populations.

Find your health insurance today

Even in well-insured Yolo County, one in 18 residents lacks coverage. Visit Covered California to explore plan options, check income-based subsidies, and ensure you're protected against unexpected medical costs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Yolo County

via SchoolsByCounty

A robust education network in Yolo County

Yolo County serves 29,846 students through 11 distinct school districts and a total of 67 public campuses. The infrastructure features 37 elementary, 9 middle, and 17 high schools, along with 11 alternative schools to meet diverse learner needs.

High graduation rates lead the region

Yolo County boasts an 88.8% graduation rate, surpassing both the California average of 87.5% and the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil expenditure is $7,970, lower than the state's $8,762 average, the county maintains a solid school score of 55.0.

Woodland and Davis Joint Unified lead the way

Woodland Joint Unified is the largest district with 9,495 students, followed closely by Davis Joint Unified which serves 8,387 students. The county also offers educational choice through seven charter schools, which represent about 10.4% of all public campuses.

Suburban campuses with large secondary schools

The county's landscape is predominantly suburban with 34 schools in that setting, complemented by 17 city-based campuses. While the average school size is 481 students, large high schools like River City High serve as many as 2,216 students.

Invest in a home near top-tier schools

Families looking for strong academic performance and high graduation rates should explore real estate in the Washington or Davis Joint Unified districts. Proximity to reputable campuses like Bridgeway Island Elementary remains a key factor for homebuyers in this region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Yolo County

via RiskByCounty

Yolo ranks above average for disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 91.38, Yolo County faces higher natural disaster risk than most U.S. counties. This "Relatively Moderate" rating reflects above-average exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly earthquake and flood risks that shape the region's resilience challenges.

Yolo's risk exceeds California's state average

Yolo's composite score of 91.38 ranks above California's state average of 88.72, placing it among the state's more hazard-exposed counties. This higher-than-average standing reflects the county's position in a seismically active zone with significant flood vulnerability.

Yolo faces steeper risks than Yuba County

Yolo's composite risk score of 91.38 significantly exceeds neighboring Yuba County's 80.88, making Yolo one of the region's higher-risk areas. While both counties share wildfire and earthquake exposure, Yolo faces notably elevated flood risk (89.57 vs. 83.78), a critical distinction for emergency planning.

Earthquakes and floods pose greatest threats

Yolo County's earthquake risk score of 97.42 is exceptionally high, reflecting its location near major fault lines—a hazard residents must prepare for year-round. Flood risk also ranks dangerously high at 89.57, particularly threatening communities near the Sacramento and Yolo Bypass systems during heavy rainfall and spring snowmelt.

Earthquake and flood coverage essential here

Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover earthquake or flood damage—two of Yolo County's top three risks. Given your county's earthquake risk score of 97.42 and flood risk of 89.57, obtaining separate earthquake insurance and NFIP flood policies should be immediate priorities, regardless of your perceived distance from fault lines or waterways.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Yolo County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warmer Mediterranean Climate in Yolo

Yolo County's 62.1°F average annual temperature sits significantly higher than the national median, characterizing its classic Mediterranean climate. The county receives just 21.1 inches of annual precipitation, contributing to its dry and sun-drenched landscape.

Exceeding California's Average Warmth

At 62.1°F, Yolo maintains a warmer profile than the California state average of 58.7°F. This inland position prevents the cooling coastal effects found in many other California counties, keeping annual averages high.

Drier and Warmer Than Eastern Neighbors

Yolo is slightly warmer than neighboring Yuba County, which averages 61.7°F. While Yuba receives a substantial 35.8 inches of rain, Yolo operates on a much drier 21.1 inches annually.

Sizzling Summers and Snowless Winters

Summers are intense with 97 days reaching 90°F or higher and a July average of 76.4°F. Winters remain very mild at 48.4°F, with no annual snowfall recorded in the county.

Prepare for Prolonged Summer Heat

Residents must invest in robust HVAC systems to handle nearly 100 days of extreme heat each year. Outdoor planning is most flexible during the mild 46.9°F January days when temperatures remain well above freezing.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Yolo County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced, Near-Neutral Soils in Yolo

Yolo County features an average soil pH of 6.78, placing it slightly above the national median of 6.5. This near-neutral acidity level is more alkaline than the California state average of 6.34, providing a versatile foundation for varied agriculture.

A Heavy Mix of Silt and Clay

The county's soil profile contains 40.2% silt and 29.1% clay, creating a dense texture that holds onto nutrients effectively. With sand making up only 28.2%, these soils offer high workability but may require careful management to prevent compaction.

High Water Capacity Despite Lower Organic Levels

Yolo's organic matter sits at 1.95%, which falls below the state average of 3.30% and just under the national average of 2.0%. However, its available water capacity of 0.154 in/in exceeds the California average, ensuring plants have steady access to moisture.

Managing High Runoff Potential

Classified in Hydrologic Group D, Yolo soils exhibit low infiltration rates and high runoff potential when thoroughly wet. Farmers and builders must plan for slow drainage, as these heavy soil layers resist rapid water movement compared to sandy neighbors.

Abundant Harvests in Zone 9b

With a soil score of 49.3 outperforming the state average, Yolo is a premier region for tomatoes, almonds, and sunflowers. Use the long growing season of Hardiness Zone 9b to establish a thriving home garden in this productive Central Valley earth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Yolo County

via LawnByCounty

Moderate Lawn Maintenance in Yolo County

Yolo County earns a lawn difficulty score of 50.1, placing it exactly at the national median but slightly below the California average of 51.3. Maintaining a healthy lawn in Hardiness Zone 9b requires active management to overcome significant summer heat hurdles.

High Heat and Limited Rainfall

Residents face 97 extreme heat days annually, which is nearly double the state average of 59 days. With only 21.1 inches of annual precipitation—well below the ideal 30-50 inches—consistent irrigation is required to fuel 4,754 growing degree days.

Excellent Soil pH for Nutrient Intake

The local soil features a pH of 6.78, falling perfectly within the optimal 6.0 to 7.0 range for turfgrass. The soil contains a balanced mix of 29.1% clay and 28.2% sand, providing a stable foundation despite missing drainage class data.

Stable Conditions Amidst Dry Cycles

The county currently reports 0% drought coverage and has seen no weeks of drought over the past year. To maintain this resilience, growers should prioritize deep watering cycles to help roots survive the 97 days of 90-degree temperatures.

Start Seeding After February Frosts

Heat-tolerant species like Bermuda or Zoysia are the best performers for Zone 9b's 4,754 growing degree days. Plan your project after the last spring frost on February 10th to maximize the season before the first frost arrives in December.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Yolo County's county score?
Yolo County, California has a composite county score of 38 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 Yolo County rank among counties in California?
Yolo County ranks #41 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 Yolo County, California?
The median annual property tax in Yolo County is $4,567, with an effective tax rate of 0.77%. This earns Yolo County a tax score of 55.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Yolo County?
The median household income in Yolo County, California is $88,818 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Yolo County earns an income score of 91.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Yolo County, California a good place to live?
Yolo County scores 38/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #41 in California. The best way to evaluate Yolo 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 Yolo 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.