Dielectric Constants for Common Types of Earth

Surface Type Typical Area(s) Dielectric Constant (Relative Permittivity)
Salt Water Oceans 81
Fresh Water Lakes, Ponds 80
Pastoral, Low Hills, Rich Soil Dallas, TX to Lincoln, NE 25
Pastoral, Medium Hills, Rich Soil OH and IL 14
Flat Country, Marshy, Densely Wooded LA near Mississippi River 12
Pastoral, Medium Hills & Forestation MD, PA, NY, Exclusive of Mountains & Coastline 13
Pastoral, Medium Hills & Forestation, Heavy Clay Soil Central VA 15
Rocky Soil, Steep Hills Mountainous 2-4
Sandy, Dry, Flat, Coastal Desert 10
Cities, Industrial Areas Small Cities, Urban 5
Cities, Heavy Industrial Areas, High Buildings Large Cities 3