countyscore
46.6
County Score
Income & Jobs 65.6Safety 63.6Schools 45.1

County Report Card

About Bandera County, Texas

Slightly Below the National Midpoint

Bandera County achieves a composite score of 46.6, trailing just behind the national median of 50.0. While it falls short of the national midpoint, it remains competitive across several key dimensions.

Leading the Texas Average

Despite its national standing, Bandera County outperforms the Texas state average composite of 41.9. This suggests the county offers a better overall experience than many of its state neighbors.

High Incomes and Strong Safety

The county boasts a solid income score of 65.6, supported by a median household income of $69,703. Residents also benefit from a safety score of 63.6 and a relatively low effective tax rate of 0.940%.

Environmental Risks and Water Access

Resource management remains a primary concern, reflected in a water score of 24.3 and a risk score of 33.3. These numbers indicate potential vulnerabilities to environmental hazards and infrastructure limitations.

Suited for Safe Rural Living

Bandera County is best for households looking for a safe, middle-income environment with moderate tax rates. It appeals to those who value security over robust public water infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax42.4Cost40.8Safety63.6Health42.6Schools45.1Income65.6Risk33.3Water24.3Weather28.6
🏛42.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠40.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼65.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡63.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤42.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓45.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡33.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧24.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤28.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨41
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱25.7
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

Medina County
Texas
36.8
Kendall County
Texas
41.3
Kerr County
Texas
40.1
Real County
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33.6
Bexar County
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Uvalde County
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Gillespie County
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Comal County
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Deep Dives

Bandera County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Bandera County

via TaxByCounty

Bandera County has low tax rates

Bandera County's effective rate of 0.940% ranks in the 28th percentile nationally, well below the U.S. median of 1.276%. Despite moderate median home values of $249,800, residents pay just $2,347 annually—well below the national median property tax of $2,690.

Among Texas's most affordable

At 0.940%, Bandera County has one of the lowest effective tax rates in Texas, significantly undercutting the state average of 1.276%. Its median tax of $2,347 sits slightly above the state median of $2,193, reflecting Bandera's better-than-average property values within its tax-friendly environment.

The clear tax bargain nearby

Bandera County's 0.940% rate is the lowest among comparable Hill Country and central Texas peers, including Blanco County (1.043%) and Bastrop County (1.513%). This makes Bandera an attractive destination for retirees and remote workers seeking lower tax bills.

Just $2,347 on median home

A median home valued at $249,800 in Bandera County results in an estimated annual tax of $2,347. With a mortgage, that becomes $2,882; without one, $1,846.

Even low rates warrant checking

Bandera's favorable tax environment doesn't mean every assessment is correct. Homeowners should still verify their property values against recent comparable sales; appealing an overassessed property costs nothing and could reduce your already-modest tax bill further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Bandera County

via CostByCounty

Bandera hovers near Texas and national norms

Bandera County renters spend 17.2% of income on housing, nearly matching Texas's state average of 18.1% and well below the national affordability crisis at 30%. The county offers modest relief from national housing pressures while maintaining reasonable costs.

Middle of the pack in Texas

Bandera County ranks near the state median for affordability, neither exceptionally cheap nor expensive. Its rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% places it comfortably within Texas averages, making it a balanced option for buyers across income levels.

Competitive with Hill Country peers

Bandera's median rent of $998 slightly exceeds the state average of $963 but remains lower than fast-growing Hill Country counties like Blanco and Hays. Home values of $249,800 reflect the scenic limestone and ranch character of the region.

Income stretches further here

At a median income of $69,703, Bandera residents pay $998 for rent or $814 for ownership, leaving reasonable room in monthly budgets. Housing costs consume roughly 17% of income, well below the crisis threshold.

Hill Country charm at fair prices

Bandera offers Texas Hill Country living—scenic, community-oriented—without the extreme price tags of neighboring counties. Compare these affordability metrics with your current location to see if the ranching and outdoor lifestyle fits your budget.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Bandera County

via IncomeByCounty

Bandera County slightly below national norm

Bandera County's median household income of $69,703 trails the national median of $74,755 by about $5,000. However, it exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737 by roughly 8%, signaling a county economy performing solidly within its state context.

Strong per capita income lifts county standing

Though median household income ranks in the mid-tier statewide, Bandera County's per capita income of $39,552 significantly exceeds the Texas average of $33,197. This suggests higher individual earnings power, potentially driven by skilled workers or affluent retirees in the Hill Country.

Hill Country affluence visible in comparisons

Bandera County's $69,703 median household income sits near Bexar County ($70,571) and Bailey County ($70,625), but its per capita income of $39,552 is notably higher than all three neighbors. The county attracts wealth beyond typical household structures, reflected in its $249,800 median home value.

Housing costs rising faster than income gains

Bandera County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% remains manageable, but it's creeping upward compared to neighboring counties. A median household earning $69,703 spends roughly $1,000 monthly on rent, manageable but requiring careful budgeting alongside the county's steep $249,800 median home prices.

Leverage high per capita income for wealth

Bandera County's strong per capita income of $39,552 signals opportunity for individual financial growth beyond typical household metrics. Residents should capitalize on higher earning potential through diversified investments, property ownership, and retirement planning strategies tailored to Hill Country property values.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Bandera County

via CrimeByCounty

Bandera County Outpaces National Benchmarks

Bandera County earns a high 98.7 safety score, reflecting a community much safer than the typical American county. Its total crime rate of 845.1 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Beating the Texas State Average

Bandera outperforms the Texas state average safety score of 96.8 with its own impressive 98.7 rating. Its total crime rate sits at roughly 41% of the statewide average of 2,052.5 per 100K.

Comparing Central Texas Safety

While slightly higher than Baylor County (518.0), Bandera's crime rate of 845.1 remains lower than many other Central Texas communities. It provides a peaceful alternative to the higher activity seen in neighboring Bastrop.

Analyzing Property and Violent Crimes

The local data shows 698.7 property crimes and 146.4 violent crimes per 100K residents. Bandera’s violent crime rate is less than half of the national average of 369.8.

Layered Defense for Rural Homes

Residents can maintain this safe environment by joining local neighborhood watch programs and installing smart cameras. These tools provide an extra layer of defense for large rural properties.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Bandera County

via HealthByCounty

Bandera County leads on life expectancy

Bandera County's 76.9-year life expectancy ranks well above the U.S. average of 73.5 years and puts it among the healthiest counties in its region. With an 18.4% poor or fair health rate below the national average of 19.2%, residents report stronger day-to-day wellness.

Bandera outperforms Texas on most health metrics

At 76.9 years, Bandera's life expectancy exceeds the Texas state average of 74.3 years by 2.6 years, and its 19.4% uninsured rate is nearly identical to the state average of 19.8%. This balance of good outcomes and reasonable coverage is rare among Texas counties.

Mental health care far exceeds surrounding area

Bandera County provides 194 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—more than four times the rate of nearby Bailey County (45 per 100K) and nearly three times Bastrop County (75 per 100K). Primary care availability at 33 per 100K is solid, though not exceptional.

Strong coverage and mental health support

Bandera's 19.4% uninsured rate is below many Texas peers, and its exceptional mental health infrastructure (194 providers per 100K) means residents have real access to therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care. This combination supports both physical and behavioral health outcomes.

Maintain coverage for continued health

Bandera County residents with coverage should review plans annually to ensure continued access to the excellent mental health providers available locally. New residents should visit Healthcare.gov to secure coverage and tap into this region's mental health advantage.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Bandera County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rural Schooling in the Hill Country

Bandera County supports 2,627 students across 5 public schools distributed between two local districts. The landscape includes two elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, and a unique PK-12 campus. This rural infrastructure provides a wide range of grade levels despite the small number of total facilities.

Steady Results on a Lean Budget

The county maintains a graduation rate of 91.7%, which aligns almost perfectly with the Texas state average. Education is managed with a lean per-pupil expenditure of $6,589, falling below the state average of $7,498. The resulting school score of 53.5 reflects a steady performance slightly below the state average of 55.3.

Bandera ISD Leads the Way

Bandera ISD is the dominant district, serving 2,381 students across four different campuses. Medina ISD operates as a smaller alternative, managing a single school with 246 students. There are no charter schools in the county, keeping public education centered around these two traditional districts.

Diverse Sizes in a Rural Setting

Every school in the county is classified as rural, reflecting the rugged beauty of the surrounding Hill Country. Schools vary significantly in size, from Bandera High School with 713 students down to the Medina School at 246. The average enrollment of 525 students per campus ensures a manageable and personalized learning environment.

Discover Rural Living Near Bandera Schools

For families seeking a rural lifestyle without sacrificing academic reliability, Bandera County offers a compelling mix of small schools and consistent graduation rates. Whether you prefer the larger Bandera ISD or the intimate Medina ISD, school quality is a major draw for local homebuyers. Start your search today to find a home in these scenic school zones.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Bandera County

via RiskByCounty

Bandera County Exceeds National Risk Average

Bandera County scores 66.70 on the composite risk index, ranking as Relatively Low but still above the national average. This Hill Country location faces above-average natural hazard exposure compared to most U.S. counties.

Above-Average Risk for Texas

Bandera County's score of 66.70 exceeds Texas's state average of 49.00, placing it in the higher-risk tier statewide. Its Hill Country position creates exposure to multiple hazard types uncommon in West Texas.

Similar Risk to Blanco, Higher Than Burnet

Bandera County's 66.70 score places it between lower-risk Blanco County (33.02) and higher-risk Bastrop County (81.17). Its exposure to flooding and wildfire mirrors other Edwards Plateau counties.

Floods and Wildfires Lead Threats

Flood risk (79.26) and wildfire risk (86.67) dominate Bandera County's hazard profile, reflecting Hill Country creek systems and dry vegetation. Tornado risk (65.01) adds a significant secondary threat across the region.

Add Flood Coverage to Your Policy

Standard homeowners insurance excludes flood damage—critical in Bandera County where flood risk scores 79.26. Secure both a separate flood policy and wildfire coverage to fully protect against your county's top two hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Bandera County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer than the national median

Bandera County averages 66.6°F annually, which is more than 12 degrees warmer than the national median. This humid subtropical climate stays significantly warmer than most of the United States year-round.

Typical for the Texas Hill Country

The county's average temperature of 66.6°F is slightly warmer than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. It represents the quintessential warm climate found in the southern heart of the state.

Wet and warm compared to neighbors

Bandera receives 34.5 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the state average of 31.9 inches. This extra rainfall supports the lush terrain compared to drier counties further west.

Long summers and very mild winters

Residents face 112 extreme heat days over 90°F each year, with July averages reaching 82.2°F. Winter is brief and gentle, averaging 50.6°F with only 0.3 inches of annual snowfall.

Prepare for humidity and summer heat

Ensure HVAC systems are tuned for the 81.6°F summer average. Residents should also maintain drainage systems to handle the 34.5 inches of annual rain during seasonal storms.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Bandera County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Mollisols of the Hill Country

Bandera County is defined by Mollisols, a taxonomic order known for its dark, fertile surface layers. The average pH of 7.53 is more alkaline than the state average of 7.09 and the national median of 6.5. These soils provide a stable, nutrient-rich base for local ecosystems.

The Balance of Silty Clay

The soil contains 37.9% clay and 37.6% silt, creating a heavy silty clay texture that holds onto nutrients. Only 20.4% of the soil is sand, which means the ground can be difficult to work when wet. This composition is excellent for retaining moisture during the dry Texas summers.

Top-Tier Organic Matter Content

Bandera boasts a high organic matter content of 3.37%, more than doubling the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is also strong at 0.142 in/in, outperforming the state baseline of 0.133. This combination creates a naturally fertile environment for both wild and cultivated plants.

Managing Runoff in Group C

Despite being well drained, the soil belongs to hydrologic group C, indicating a moderately high runoff potential. Water penetrates the surface effectively, but heavy rains can cause surface flow issues on sloped terrain. Builders must account for the clay content when designing foundations to manage shifting.

Bountiful Options for Zone 8b

The mild winters of zone 8b allow for a long growing season of fruit trees and perennials. High organic matter makes this an ideal spot for backyard vegetable patches or orchards. Embrace the Hill Country climate by planting peaches or native wildflowers in this productive soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Bandera County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Turf in the Hill Country

Bandera County presents a difficult environment for lawn care with a low score of 25.7 out of 100. This is notably harder than both the Texas average of 31.7 and the national median of 50.0. Homeowners in Hardiness Zone 8b must manage a delicate balance between heat and water availability.

Extreme Heat and High Evaporation

Lawns face 112 days of extreme heat annually, which is higher than the state average of 105 days. While 34.5 inches of annual rain falls within the ideal range, the 6,439 growing degree days mean turfgrass stays active and thirsty for most of the year. Mowing heights should be kept high during the peak summer months to shade the soil.

Heavy Clay and High pH

The soil foundation is 37.9% clay, creating a well-drained but heavy silty clay texture. The pH of 7.53 is slightly alkaline, often requiring sulfur amendments to bring it closer to the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. Aeration is essential to prevent the clay from compacting under the Texas sun.

A Year-Long Drought Cycle

Bandera County has been in drought for all 53 weeks of the past year, with 45.4% of the area in severe conditions. Water conservation is mandatory, and mulching around lawn edges can help preserve critical moisture. Residents should prioritize drought-hardy native grasses to survive these persistent dry spells.

Seeding for Zone 8b

Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia thrive in this zone and offer the best resilience against heat. Aim to plant after the last frost on March 16 to ensure the soil is warm enough for establishment. Starting early in the spring gives the lawn time to mature before the 112-day heat window arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bandera County's county score?
Bandera County, Texas has a composite county score of 46.6 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 Bandera County rank among counties in Texas?
Bandera County ranks #91 among all counties in Texas 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 Bandera County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Bandera County is $2,347, with an effective tax rate of 0.94%. This earns Bandera County a tax score of 42.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Bandera County?
The median household income in Bandera County, Texas is $69,703 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Bandera County earns an income score of 65.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Bandera County, Texas a good place to live?
Bandera County scores 46.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #91 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Bandera 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 Bandera 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.