countyscore
28.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 93.9Schools 53.3Soil Quality 46.4

County Report Card

About Brazoria County, Texas

High Incomes Facing Coastal Challenges

Brazoria County carries a composite score of 28.7, which sits well below the national median of 50.0. While local earnings are high, other environmental and cost factors pull the overall average down. It presents a high-risk, high-reward lifestyle.

Below the Lone Star Average

The county's overall score of 28.7 is lower than the Texas average of 41.9. This gap is largely driven by high property taxes and coastal environmental risks. Despite this, it remains an economic powerhouse in the Gulf Coast region.

Exceptional Income and Economic Power

With an income score of 93.9, Brazoria is an economic leader featuring a median household income of $95,155. Residents benefit from strong career prospects and high earning potential. School quality also maintains a respectable score of 53.3.

High Costs and Environmental Risk

Brazoria faces a very low tax score of 6.2 and a cost score of 7.5 due to a 1.745% tax rate and $1,410 average rent. Environmental risk is also a major challenge with a score of 6.4. These factors create significant financial and physical pressure on households.

A Hub for High-Earning Professionals

This county is a perfect match for high-income earners in the energy or medical sectors who can offset high living costs. It suits those willing to trade environmental risk for a top-tier salary. Families here enjoy strong schools and robust local infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax6.2Cost7.5Safety26.9Health44.9Schools53.3Income93.9Risk6.4Water21.2Weather21
🏛6.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼93.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡26.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤44.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡6.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧21.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤21
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨46.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱35.7
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

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Deep Dives

Brazoria County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Brazoria County

via TaxByCounty

Brazoria's taxes rank among the nation's highest

Brazoria County's effective tax rate of 1.745% significantly exceeds the national median of 1.09%, placing it in the top 15% of U.S. counties by tax burden. Homeowners pay a median of $4,831 annually—nearly 80% more than the national median of $2,690.

Among Texas's most heavily taxed counties

At 1.745%, Brazoria County's effective rate towers above Texas's 1.276% average, making it one of the state's priciest counties for property taxes. The median tax bill of $4,831 exceeds the state median by $2,638—a striking gap of 120%.

Substantially higher than Brazos and regional peers

Brazoria County's 1.745% rate far outpaces nearby Brazos County (1.637%) and represents the steepest tax climb in the region. Coastal location and higher home values combine to create a notably heavier tax burden here.

Your median annual tax bill: $4,831

On Brazoria County's median home value of $276,800, typical homeowners pay approximately $4,831 per year without a mortgage and $6,192 with one. This sizable annual obligation reflects the county's among-the-highest effective tax rate.

Challenge your appraisal—potential savings are significant

Given Brazoria County's high tax burden, a successful property tax appeal could yield substantial annual savings. Many homeowners never file, missing the free opportunity to dispute inflated assessments with the county appraisal district.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Brazoria County

via CostByCounty

Brazoria's higher incomes cushion housing costs

Brazoria County's median household income of $95,155—27% above the U.S. average—helps offset high rents and owner costs. Despite paying $1,410 monthly rent, residents spend only 17.8% of income on housing, a rate below the national norm and competitive with Texas.

Brazoria's income advantage shines statewide

Brazoria County ranks among Texas's highest-income areas, placing it comfortably in the state's affordable category despite absolute housing costs. The 17.8% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 18.1%, reflecting strong earning power.

Brazoria commands premium, backed by wages

Brazoria's $1,410 monthly rent and $276,800 median home value exceed nearby Galveston and Matagorda counties, yet affordability remains solid due to $95,155 median income. High earners here enjoy access to growing Houston suburbs without the overextension of lower-income peers.

Strong earners manage premium housing costs

Brazoria residents allocate 17.8% of income to rent and 20.4% to owner costs, both sustainable rates for a high-earning county. The $1,618 monthly owner cost feels manageable against the $95,155 median income, supporting the region's appeal to upwardly mobile families.

Brazoria suits relocators with strong income

If you're earning $90,000+ and considering Houston's suburbs, Brazoria's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio offers breathing room despite premium absolute costs. Compare it to pricier Harris County and you'll see why this fast-growing county attracts professionals seeking affordability with growth.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Brazoria County

via IncomeByCounty

Brazoria County ranks among America's wealthiest

Brazoria County's median household income of $95,155 significantly exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 27%, placing it well into the upper-income tier nationally. Its per capita income of $41,681 also towers above the Texas state average of $33,197, signaling strong economic capacity throughout the county.

Top earner among Texas counties

At $95,155, Brazoria County ranks among the highest-income counties in Texas, far outpacing the state average of $64,737. This exceptional performance reflects robust employment opportunities and strong household earning power across the region.

Brazoria dominates regional income competition

Brazoria's $95,155 household income towers over every county in this group—outearning Bosque ($69,339) by $25,816, Borden ($64,250) by $30,905, and dramatically outpacing Brewster, Briscoe, and Brooks. The county represents the clear economic engine of the region.

Strong incomes support premium housing values

Despite a median home value of $276,800—the highest among these counties—Brazoria's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio remains healthy and affordable. High household incomes ($95,155) enable residents to shoulder premium housing costs while maintaining financial flexibility.

Brazoria residents can aggressively build wealth

With median household income of $95,155 and manageable housing burden ratios, Brazoria County residents are positioned to invest heavily in retirement accounts, real estate, and diversified portfolios. The county's economic strength creates exceptional opportunities for long-term wealth accumulation and financial independence.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Brazoria County

via CrimeByCounty

Secure Coastal Living

Brazoria County demonstrates strong public safety with a 97.2 safety score. Its total crime rate of 1,780.3 per 100,000 residents is significantly lower than the national figure of 2,385.5.

Stronger Than the State Average

Brazoria sits above the Texas average safety score of 96.8 and the average state crime rate of 2,052.5. This performance is notable for such a large and diverse coastal county.

Detailed Safety Insights

Bolstered by data from 33 reporting agencies, Brazoria offers a highly detailed and transparent view of local safety. This data indicates the county is generally safer than many of its industrial neighbors.

Low Violent Crime Rates

The violent crime rate is 205.3, which is well below the Texas state average of 341.3. Property crimes occur at a rate of 1,575.0, forming the majority of local law enforcement activity.

Secure Your Outdoor Assets

Given that property crime is the main local issue, residents should focus on securing vehicles and garages. Modern alarm systems provide an effective layer of protection for coastal homes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Brazoria County

via HealthByCounty

Brazoria Exceeds State Benchmarks

Brazoria County's life expectancy of 76.9 years surpasses Texas's 74.3-year average, placing residents among the healthier populations in the state. With 19.0% reporting poor or fair health, the county demonstrates strong overall population health.

Outperforming Texas Averages

Brazoria's 76.9-year life expectancy ranks 2.6 years above the Texas average, and its 14.9% uninsured rate beats the state's 19.8%. The county represents a health success story within Texas.

Regional Health Leader

Brazoria's 76.9-year life expectancy trails only Brewster (79.7) and Brazos (79.0) counties in the region, substantially outpacing Bowie's 72.3 years. The county also maintains strong provider capacity with 117 mental health providers per 100K.

Access Meets Coverage

Brazoria offers 65 primary care providers and 117 mental health providers per 100K residents, with only 14.9% uninsured. This combination of strong provider availability and high coverage rates enables consistent healthcare access across the county.

Maintain Your Coverage

Brazoria's success stems from strong insurance rates—keep it that way. If you're among the 14.9% without coverage, visit healthcare.gov to explore plans and sustain the community's health advantage.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Brazoria County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive Suburban Education Hub

Brazoria County manages a robust infrastructure of 107 schools serving 75,032 students across 8 districts. The system is heavily weighted toward early education, featuring 53 elementary schools and 27 middle schools.

Excellence in Graduation Outcomes

The county achieves a stellar 94.1% graduation rate, outperforming the state average of 91.6% and the national mark of 87.0%. This success comes despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $6,422, which is roughly $1,000 less than the state average.

Alvin and Pearland Lead the Way

Alvin ISD is the largest provider with 33 schools and 29,188 students, followed closely by Pearland ISD's 21,237 students. The county also offers 4 charter schools, providing specialized alternatives for nearly 4% of the student population.

Suburban Focus and Large Campuses

With 68 schools located in suburban settings, the county feels distinctly residential, and campuses are large with an average of 715 students. Pearland High School is the county's largest, enrolling 3,261 students in a bustling 9–12 environment.

Find Your Home in Top-Rated Districts

Brazoria County is a top destination for families due to its high graduation rates and modern suburban campuses. Explore homes in Alvin or Pearland to be near the county's most popular and well-resourced districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Brazoria County

via RiskByCounty

Brazoria faces nearly double national risk

Brazoria County's composite risk score of 93.64 earns a Relatively Moderate rating and nearly doubles the national average. This Gulf Coast county ranks among America's highest-exposure areas to natural disasters.

Among Texas's riskiest counties statewide

Brazoria's 93.64 score towers 91% above Texas's state average of 49.00, placing it in the state's most hazardous tier. Few Texas counties face comparable multi-hazard intensity.

Highest risk in its coastal region

Brazoria (93.64) substantially exceeds nearby Brazos County (88.36) and Brooks County (60.81) in overall disaster exposure. Its Gulf proximity and low elevation create a uniquely hazardous setting.

Hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes converge

Hurricane risk of 96.91 and flood risk of 94.40 make Brazoria one of America's most hurricane-vulnerable counties, while tornado risk of 97.04 adds major severe-weather exposure. This trifecta of coastal and severe-storm hazards demands serious preparedness.

Flood and hurricane insurance are non-negotiable

Brazoria County residents must carry flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program and robust windstorm coverage—standard homeowners policies exclude both. Elevated construction, impact-resistant windows, and a reinforced shelter are essential investments in this highest-risk environment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Brazoria County

via WeatherByCounty

Subtropical Warmth on the Gulf Coast

Brazoria County's average temperature of 70.7°F is significantly higher than the national median, reflecting its coastal position. The 51.5 inches of annual precipitation puts it among the rainiest regions in the entire United States.

Hotter and Rainier than Inland Texas

The county is over 5 degrees warmer than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. It also receives nearly 20 inches more rainfall than the state norm, driven by heavy Gulf moisture and seasonal storms.

Milder Extremes than Inland Neighbors

While Brazoria is very warm, its 88 extreme heat days are fewer than Brazos County's 117. The Gulf proximity provides a moderating effect on peak temperatures, though it keeps humidity levels consistently high.

Endless Summer and Snow-Free Winters

The winter average stays a mild 56.9°F, and snowfall is practically unheard of at 0.0 inches. July averages 83.9°F, and the county faces 88 days of extreme heat annually.

Prepare for Water and Warmth

Hurricane and flood preparedness are essential given the 51.5 inches of rain and coastal location. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are the standard for a climate where snow is never a concern.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Brazoria County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal soils with near-neutral pH

Brazoria County maintains an average soil pH of 6.82, sitting very close to the national median of 6.5. This balanced pH is more neutral than the state average of 7.09. It provides an ideal chemical environment for a wide variety of plant nutrients.

Heavy clay and silt on the coast

The soil contains 30.5% silt and 27.7% clay, making it heavier than many inland Texas soils. While sand accounts for 36.6%, the high clay and silt fractions can make the soil feel sticky when wet and hard when dry. This mix requires careful timing for tilling and gardening.

Exceptional organic matter in Brazoria

The county boasts a high organic matter content of 3.81%, more than double the state average of 1.66%. Paradoxically, available water capacity is low at 0.094 in/in. The rich organic levels provide excellent natural fertility for local growers.

Slow drainage and high runoff potential

Belonging to hydrologic group D, this soil naturally resists rapid water infiltration. This can lead to standing water after the heavy coastal rains common to the region. Gardeners should consider raised beds to bypass the slow-draining nature of these heavy soils.

Tropical possibilities in zone 9b

Located in the warm 9b hardiness zone, Brazoria County supports citrus and other subtropical varieties. The high organic matter is a major asset for heavy-feeding vegetables like tomatoes and peppers. With a little drainage management, your coastal garden will thrive.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Brazoria County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Growing in Zone 9b

Brazoria County features a lawn difficulty score of 35.7, sitting just above the state average of 31.7. The subtropical climate of Zone 9b provides a nearly year-round growing season for warm-season grasses.

High Humidity and Ample Rain

The county receives 51.5 inches of rain annually, providing plenty of water compared to the state average of 31.9 inches. With 88 extreme heat days, summer stress is significant but less intense than in inland Texas.

Near-Perfect Soil pH Balance

The soil pH of 6.82 is almost perfectly situated within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for healthy lawns. A clay content of 27.7% helps the soil hold onto nutrients, reducing the need for frequent fertilization.

Monitoring Coastal Drought Trends

Currently, 31.6% of the area is in severe drought, and the county endured 27 weeks of drought in the past year. High rainfall doesn't guarantee safety, so residents should prioritize water-efficient landscaping.

Early Starts for Coastal Lawns

Bermuda and St. Augustine grasses are the top performers in this humid, warm climate. Since the last spring frost typically passes by January 31, you can start your lawn much earlier than the rest of the state.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brazoria County's county score?
Brazoria County, Texas has a composite county score of 28.8 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 Brazoria County rank among counties in Texas?
Brazoria County ranks #222 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 Brazoria County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Brazoria County is $4,831, with an effective tax rate of 1.75%. This earns Brazoria County a tax score of 6.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Brazoria County?
The median household income in Brazoria County, Texas is $95,155 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Brazoria County earns an income score of 93.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Brazoria County, Texas a good place to live?
Brazoria County scores 28.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #222 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Brazoria 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 Brazoria 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.