countyscore
25.6
County Score
Water Quality 64.5Income & Jobs 57.1Soil Quality 37.1

County Report Card

About Bell County, Texas

Facing National Livability Gaps

Bell County scores a 25.6 on the composite index, falling well below the national median of 50.0. The data suggests that local growth has outpaced the development of key livability factors.

Lagging Behind State Averages

The county sits nearly 16 points below the Texas average score of 41.9. Despite being a major population center, it struggles to keep pace with state benchmarks for taxes and risk management.

Stable Incomes and Water Reliability

Bell County shows strength in infrastructure with a water score of 64.5. It also maintains a respectable income score of 57.1, supported by a median household income of $66,051.

High Risk and Tax Burdens

Environmental vulnerability is a major concern with a risk score of only 8.9. High property taxes also weigh on residents, resulting in an effective tax rate of 1.542% and a tax score of 11.1.

Suited for Mid-Income Professionals

Bell County serves as a functional hub for middle-income earners who prioritize reliable water and steady jobs. It is best for those who are less concerned about natural hazard risks and tax rates.

2040608010011.116.222.734.63357.18.964.528.7Tax11.1Cost16.2Safety22.7Health34.6Schools33Income57.1Risk8.9Water64.5Weather28.725.6/100
This county
National avg
7 below average

Bell County DNA

Foverall

How Bell County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Bell County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Property Tax (11.1/100), though Water Quality (64.5/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
11.1-40.9
Cost
16.2-31.8
Safety
22.7-32.3
Health
34.6-15.399999999999999
Schools
33-21
Income
57.1
Risk
8.9-38.1
Water
64.5
Weather
28.7-27.3
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Many homeowners in Bell County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$221,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,168/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$221,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$46,720/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $66,051/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

10.8

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Coryell County
Texas
32.7
Williamson County
Texas
43.5
Milam County
Texas
41.8
Falls County
Texas
46.4
McLennan County
Texas
22.6
Burnet County
Texas
37.5
Lampasas County
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41.6
Travis County
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37.9

Deep Dives

Bell County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Bell County

via TaxByCounty

Bell County taxes rank high nationally

Bell County's effective tax rate of 1.542% places it in the 75th percentile nationally, well above the U.S. median of 1.276%. Median property taxes of $3,409 run 27% higher than the national median of $2,690, despite home values near the national average.

Highest rate in this Texas sample

Bell County's effective rate of 1.542% is the highest among these eight Texas counties, exceeding the state average of 1.276% by nearly 21%. Its median tax of $3,409 surpasses the state median of $2,193, signaling aggressive assessment and school funding demands.

Steeper than most central Texas

Bell County's 1.542% rate exceeds comparable central Texas counties including Bastrop (1.513%), Bexar (1.814%), and Blanco (1.043%). Though its median home value of $221,100 is modest, the tax bite is substantial relative to property worth.

Over $3,400 on median home

A median home valued at $221,100 in Bell County generates an estimated annual tax of $3,409. With a mortgage, that reaches $3,892; without one, it is $2,558.

Appeal today—Bell rates are steep

Bell County's high effective rate makes the county especially aggressive in assessment. Homeowners should immediately request a property tax appraisal review; overassessments of 15% or more are common and correctable through the appeal process.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Bell County

via CostByCounty

Bell County stretches housing budgets

Bell County renters spend 21.2% of income on housing, significantly above Texas's state average of 18.1% and approaching national crisis levels. With a median income of $66,051, residents allocate over $1,168 monthly just for rent.

Upper third for affordability burden

Bell County ranks among the more expensive Texas counties relative to local incomes, reflecting its position as a military and manufacturing hub. The county's role as home to Fort Hood drives demand and costs upward.

Pricier than rural alternatives

Bell County's median rent of $1,168 exceeds surrounding rural counties like Coryell and Milam by 20-30%. Home values of $221,100 reflect military-driven demand and proximity to Central Texas growth corridors.

Military presence drives costs up

Bell County's median income of $66,051 is stretched by rents of $1,168 and ownership costs of $1,262 monthly. Housing consumes over 21% of income, leaving constrained budgets for families without dual high incomes.

Military families weigh options carefully

Bell County's housing crisis reflects Fort Hood's gravitational pull on the local market. If you're military-connected or seeking affordable Central Texas living, compare these numbers against neighboring Coryell or McLennan counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Bell County

via IncomeByCounty

Bell County income near national average

At $66,051, Bell County's median household income sits within striking distance of the national median of $74,755, trailing by about $8,700 or 12%. The county ranks solidly in the national middle class, reflecting stable earning power.

Just above Texas state average

Bell County's median household income of $66,051 exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737 by roughly $1,300 annually. While the margin is modest, it places the county in the upper half of Texas counties by this measure.

Stable middle-income county position

Bell County's $66,051 median household income falls between lower-income Bee County ($56,075) and higher-income Bastrop County ($82,730). Its per capita income of $33,558 mirrors the Texas state average of $33,197, suggesting fairly typical income distribution patterns.

Housing costs approach uncomfortable levels

At 21.2%, Bell County's rent-to-income ratio indicates growing housing affordability pressure despite solid household incomes. Residents earning the median $66,051 annually pay roughly $1,165 monthly in rent, leaving tight margins for other essentials and savings.

Build wealth through housing equity strategies

Bell County's $221,100 median home value and $66,051 median household income create genuine homeownership opportunity for many residents. Prioritize down payment savings and mortgage pre-qualification to convert housing costs into equity building rather than pure rent expense.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Bell County

via CrimeByCounty

Safe Living in Bell County

Bell County’s total crime rate of 1,979.0 per 100K is comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.9, indicating a generally secure environment for residents.

Stronger Performance Than Texas Average

Bell County performs better than the state average, with a crime rate slightly lower than the Texas mark of 2,052.5. Its safety score of 96.9 sits just above the statewide average of 96.8.

Regional Safety Coordination

With 16 reporting agencies, Bell County manages crime more effectively than neighboring Bexar, though it sees more activity than nearby Bastrop. Its crime rate is roughly double that of rural Blanco County.

Balancing Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime sits at 379.3 per 100K, slightly above the national average of 369.8. Property crime is more prevalent at 1,599.7 per 100K, though this remains below the national average.

Modern Solutions for Home Safety

Strengthening home security with smart locks and door sensors can help mitigate the risk of property theft. Consistent vigilance in residential areas supports the work of local police.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Bell County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive Infrastructure for a Large Population

Bell County features a massive educational network of 110 public schools serving 71,019 students across 11 districts. This includes 56 elementary schools and 21 high schools, making it one of the most comprehensive systems in the region. The county also supports 16 alternative schools and 10 other specialized campuses.

Scaling Success Across the County

The county maintains a graduation rate of 89.3%, which is higher than the national average but slightly below the Texas state mark. Education is delivered with a per-pupil expenditure of $6,256, supported by a composite school score of 51.6. These figures reflect the challenges and successes of managing such a vast and diverse student population.

Large Districts and Charter Growth

Killeen ISD is the regional powerhouse, managing 54 schools and 43,935 students. Belton ISD and Temple ISD also serve large populations, with 13,644 and 8,615 students respectively. Five charter schools offer additional choices, catering to families looking for alternatives to the traditional district structure.

Diverse Urban and Suburban Settings

Bell County offers an incredible mix of locales, with 53 city schools, 21 suburban schools, and 35 rural campuses. Harker Heights High School leads the county in enrollment with 2,359 students, while the average school size is a healthy 658. Whether you want an urban vibe or a rural atmosphere, you can find it within these school zones.

Find Your Home Near Bell County Schools

With over 100 schools to choose from, Bell County offers unparalleled variety for families in Central Texas. From the bustling campuses in Killeen to the quieter rural zones, school location is a primary driver for local real estate value. Start your home search by exploring the districts that match your family's lifestyle.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Bell County

via RiskByCounty

Bell County Faces Notably Higher Risk

Bell County's composite risk score of 91.13 ranks as Relatively Moderate and places it in the upper tier of American counties by hazard exposure. This Central Texas location near Killeen-Fort Hood sits at the intersection of multiple disaster zones.

High-Risk County in Texas

Bell County's 91.13 score far exceeds Texas's state average of 49.00, ranking it among the state's most hazard-exposed counties. Only a handful of Texas counties exceed its composite risk level.

One of Region's Riskiest Counties

Bell County's 91.13 score approaches Bexar County (99.43) and significantly exceeds neighboring Williamson and Burnet counties. Its central location makes it a convergence zone for tornado activity and flash flooding.

Tornadoes and Floods Lead Threats

Tornado risk reaches 98.57 in Bell County—among the state's highest—paired with severe flood risk (89.15) and above-average wildfire exposure (89.66). This triple hazard creates exceptional vulnerability across multiple seasons.

Secure All Three Coverage Types

Bell County homeowners must carry separate flood insurance, robust wind/hail protection for tornadoes, and comprehensive wildfire coverage. Your location demands above-standard policy limits and regular policy reviews for adequate protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Bell County

via WaterByCounty

Bell County Maintains a B Grade

The county reports 16 health violations over the last five years, maintaining a low violation rate of 3.8 per 100,000 people. This performance is exceptionally strong compared to the Texas average of 581.9 violations per 100,000. Bell County remains a leader in state-level drinking water compliance.

Watershed Impairments Not Yet Evaluated

EPA assessments for water bodies in Bell County are not available for the current reporting cycle. Since these waters haven't been assessed under Section 303(d), there is no data on impairment percentages or top pollutants. Local watershed health remains an open question at the federal level.

Extensive Monitoring with 10,000+ Readings

A robust network of 39 sites generated 10,917 measurements over the last five years. Monitoring focuses heavily on physical characteristics, inorganics, and nutrients. This high density of data provides a clear and detailed picture of local water quality trends.

Little River Flows at 66% Capacity

The Little River near the city of Little River currently shows a discharge of 681 cfs, which is 66% of its 1,038 cfs long-term mean. This gauge monitors a large drainage area of 5,228 square miles. While below the mean, the flow is relatively stable compared to neighboring counties.

Continue Monitoring as River Flows Dip

Bell County shows strong compliance, but the 66% flow in the Little River suggests a need for continued awareness of source water changes. Residents can feel confident in the B grade, but should remain aware of the 16 documented violations. Utilize the county's extensive monitoring data to stay informed about nutrient and inorganic levels in your area.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Bell County

via WeatherByCounty

A classic warm southern climate

Bell County averages 66.6°F, placing it well above the median temperature for the United States. It experiences the consistent warmth typical of the American South.

Aligned with the Texas average

The county's average temperature of 66.6°F is just one degree higher than the Texas state average. It serves as a reliable benchmark for Central Texas weather patterns.

Wetter than the state average

Bell County receives 35.7 inches of rain per year, exceeding the state average of 31.9 inches. This higher precipitation supports local agriculture and keeps the region greener than its western neighbors.

Hot summers with rare snow

July temperatures peak at an average of 83.8°F, contributing to 111 extreme heat days annually. Snow is extremely rare, with only 0.1 inches falling in a typical year.

Gear up for heavy rain

Prepare for the 35.7 inches of annual precipitation by maintaining good property drainage. With 111 days over 90°F, high-efficiency cooling is a must for indoor comfort.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Bell County

via SoilByCounty

Central Texas Alkaline Soils

Bell County has an average pH of 7.47, making it more alkaline than the state average of 7.09 and the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is currently limited, the high pH suggests a mineral-rich environment. This alkalinity is common across the Blackland Prairie and Grand Prairie regions.

A Strong Clay and Silt Mix

The soil is comprised of 37.3% clay and 35.9% silt, with only 24.2% sand. This high concentration of fine particles leads to a dense soil structure that holds nutrients and water very effectively. However, this mix can be challenging to work with manual tools due to its heavy weight.

Excellent Fertility and Water Capacity

Bell County stands out with 2.16% organic matter, well above the state average of 1.66% and even the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is also high at 0.148 in/in. These numbers indicate a very productive soil that supports vigorous plant growth.

High Runoff Risk in Group D

The soil belongs to hydrologic group D, which features very slow infiltration and high runoff potential. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, this group typically indicates a risk for standing water after heavy rains. Builders must use caution, as these soils often expand and contract with moisture changes.

Deep Soil Success in Zone 8b

In hardiness zone 8b, the combination of high organic matter and water capacity is a dream for vegetable gardeners. Native pecans and oaks also thrive in these deep, nutrient-dense soils. Take advantage of the natural fertility by planting heavy-feeding crops like corn or tomatoes.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Bell County

via LawnByCounty

Central Texas Lawn Prospects

Bell County scores a 35.0 for lawn ease, outperforming the state average of 31.7. While it is more favorable than many Texas counties, it still remains more difficult than the national median of 50.0. Hardiness Zone 8b provides a standard Central Texas climate for turf growth.

Moderate Rain and High Heat

With 35.7 inches of annual precipitation, Bell County sits comfortably within the ideal 30-50 inch range for grass. However, 111 extreme heat days still put significant stress on the 6,512 growing degree days of annual growth. Lawns here thrive best when irrigated to supplement the hot summer gaps in rainfall.

Alkaline Clay Management

The soil contains 37.3% clay and has a pH of 7.47, which is slightly above the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. While specific texture and drainage data are limited, the high clay content suggests a need for core aeration to prevent soil compaction. Adding organic compost can help buffer the alkalinity and improve soil structure.

Managing 26 Weeks of Drought

Bell County experienced 26 weeks of drought in the past year, though only 3.5% of the area is currently in severe drought. Despite 100% of the county being abnormally dry, the situation is less dire than in neighboring regions. Responsible watering remains essential to maintain lawn health during the 111-day heat season.

Seeding for Success in 8b

Zoysia and Bermudagrass are excellent choices for the Central Texas climate and soil. You should aim to plant or seed after the last spring frost on March 14 to maximize the growing season. This gives the grass several months to establish deep roots before the peak July heat arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bell County's county score?
Bell County, Texas has a composite county score of 25.6 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 Bell County rank among counties in Texas?
Bell County ranks #237 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 Bell County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Bell County is $3,409, with an effective tax rate of 1.54%. This earns Bell County a tax score of 11.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Bell County?
The median household income in Bell County, Texas is $66,051 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Bell County earns an income score of 57.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Bell County, Texas a good place to live?
Bell County scores 25.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #237 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Bell 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 Bell County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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