countyscore
22.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 63.1Schools 36.3Soil Quality 31.3

County Report Card

About Caldwell County, Texas

Struggling Against National Norms

Caldwell County’s composite score of 22.5 is well below the national median of 50.0. This ranking indicates significant room for growth across several quality-of-life categories.

Trailing the Texas Average

With a score of 22.5 compared to the state average of 41.9, Caldwell County faces more systemic challenges than many of its Texas peers. Low scores in safety and taxes primarily drive this gap.

Reliable Middle-Class Incomes

The county’s primary strength is its income score of 63.1, supported by a median household income of $68,503. School quality remains a secondary strength relative to other metrics with a score of 36.3.

Significant Safety and Tax Pressures

Safety is a critical concern, with a score of only 1.3, the lowest in the region. Residents also face a high effective tax rate of 1.332%, leading to a low tax score of 19.6.

A Choice for Commuters

Caldwell County is most likely to suit residents who work in nearby metros and prioritize mid-range earnings over local safety or tax benefits. It is a county in transition that requires careful consideration of neighborhood-specific safety.

2040608010019.626.31.323.436.363.120.218.719.7Tax19.6Cost26.3Safety1.3Health23.4Schools36.3Income63.1Risk20.2Water18.7Weather19.722.5/100
This county
National avg
1 above average8 below average

Caldwell County DNA

Foverall

How Caldwell County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Caldwell County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Safety (1.3/100), though Income (63.1/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
19.6-32.4
Cost
26.3-21.7
Safety
1.3-53.7
Health
23.4-26.6
Schools
36.3-17.700000000000003
Income
63.1+12.100000000000001
Risk
20.2-26.8
Water
18.7-39.3
Weather
19.7-36.3
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$215,600

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,145/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$215,600/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$45,800/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $68,503/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

12.7

per 100K

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

Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Hays County
Texas
22.7
Gonzales County
Texas
36.8
Guadalupe County
Texas
39.4
Bastrop County
Texas
29.9
Comal County
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Travis County
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Fayette County
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47.3
Wilson County
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Deep Dives

Caldwell County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Caldwell County

via TaxByCounty

Caldwell County taxes exceed national norm

Caldwell County's effective rate of 1.332% ranks above the national median of 1.8%, placing it in the top 40% of highest-tax U.S. counties. With annual property taxes averaging $2,871 on a $215,600 median home, Caldwell residents carry a notably heavier burden than most American homeowners.

Above-average burden in Texas

At 1.332%, Caldwell County's effective rate exceeds the Texas average of 1.276% by more than half a percentage point—one of the state's steeper rates. Homeowners pay $2,871 annually, compared to the state median of $2,193, a $678 premium reflecting the county's cost structure.

Highest rate in the immediate region

Caldwell County's 1.332% effective rate stands out as the highest among nearby counties, roughly a quarter-point above Burnet (1.126%) and more than twice Burleson's rate (1.044%). This regional outlier status makes Caldwell a more expensive place to own property, all else equal.

Regional high in annual property tax

On Caldwell County's $215,600 median home, residents pay approximately $2,871 yearly in property taxes—about $239 per month. With mortgage escrow included, annual costs rise to $3,511, making Caldwell among the costlier central Texas counties for homeownership.

Challenge questionable assessments

Higher tax rates make overassessment especially costly in Caldwell County; even small appraisal errors compound into larger annual bills. Request your appraisal district's recent sales data, compare your assessed value to similar homes sold nearby, and file a protest if the numbers don't align.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Caldwell County

via CostByCounty

Caldwell County exceeds national housing burden

Caldwell County renters spend 20.1% of income on rent, above both the national average of 18.1% and the Texas state average of 18.1%. With a median household income of $68,503 trailing the national average of $74,755, the extra housing cost burden hits resident wallets harder.

Among Texas's least affordable counties

Caldwell County ranks in the lower affordability tier statewide, with a 20.1% rent-to-income ratio and $1,145 median rent both exceeding state averages. The county's rapid growth and proximity to Austin have driven up housing costs faster than local incomes.

More expensive than Brown, Callahan, Camp

Caldwell's $1,145 rent exceeds Brown County ($887), Callahan County ($881), and Camp County ($774) by 29–48%, while its $215,600 median homes cost 50% more than Camp or Callahan. For budget-conscious movers, nearby counties offer significantly better value.

Rapid growth driving up housing costs

Renters pay $1,145 monthly while homeowners carry $962, with a median home value of $215,600 reflecting Caldwell's appeal to Austin-area commuters. On a $68,503 income, housing claims 20.1% for renters and 17% for owners, leaving tighter margins than slower-growing neighbors.

Caldwell for Austin commuters with budget

If you're relocating to the Austin metro area and prioritize proximity over affordability, Caldwell County offers newer growth and reasonable commute times. Test whether your household income can comfortably absorb the $1,145 monthly rent or $215,600 home prices while maintaining savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Caldwell County

via IncomeByCounty

Caldwell County near national norms

Caldwell County's median household income of $68,503 falls 8% below the U.S. median of $74,755, reflecting modestly lower earning capacity. While below the national average, the county remains solidly middle-class by American standards.

Middle-tier income in Texas

At $68,503, Caldwell County exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737 by roughly $3,750, ranking in the middle-upper segment of Texas counties. The moderate advantage over state norms reflects a reasonably healthy local economy.

Mixed standing regionally

Caldwell County's $68,503 income trails Burnet ($77,158) and Burleson ($72,888) but exceeds Brown ($55,305) and Camp ($55,061) counties significantly. The county sits in the regional middle, suggesting moderate prosperity compared to both stronger and weaker neighboring economies.

Housing costs elevated

Caldwell County's 20.1% rent-to-income ratio indicates housing expenses consume one-fifth of median income, approaching the affordability threshold. With median home values at $215,600, rising property prices may strain some households, though core affordability remains intact for employed residents.

Focus on debt reduction first

Caldwell County residents should prioritize paying down high-interest debt and building emergency reserves before aggressive investing, given elevated housing costs. Once housing stability is secure, even modest monthly investments in tax-advantaged retirement accounts can generate substantial long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Caldwell County

via CrimeByCounty

Caldwell County Faces Higher Crime Rates

Caldwell County reports a total crime rate of 5827.8 per 100K, which is more than double the national average of 2,385.5. Consequently, the county's safety score sits at 90.8 out of 100.

Below Average Safety for Texas

The county's safety score of 90.8 falls behind the Texas state average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 5827.8 is significantly higher than the state average of 2052.5 per 100K.

Challenging Rates Compared to Neighbors

Caldwell County sees higher crime activity than nearby Brown or Burleson counties. Six reporting agencies work to manage these elevated incident levels across the region.

High Incidence of Property Crime

Property crime is the primary driver of local statistics at 4635.8 per 100K, alongside a violent crime rate of 1192.0. These figures are substantially higher than national benchmarks, requiring increased community vigilance.

Prioritize Home Defense and Awareness

Given the elevated property crime rates, professional monitoring and robust alarm systems are highly recommended. Residents should participate in neighborhood watch programs to bolster local security.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Caldwell County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse Options for Growing Enrollment

Caldwell County supports 8,436 students across 15 public schools, including six elementary and five high schools. The county maintains three districts and offers two charter schools, which account for 13.3% of the total school landscape. This variety provides families with multiple pathways including three alternative education programs.

Resilient Performance in a Growing Region

The graduation rate stands at 90.6%, which beats the national average of 87.0% but trails slightly behind the Texas state average. Spending remains lean at $6,144 per pupil, well below the national median of $13,000. Despite lower funding, the county maintains a 52.0 school score, reflecting steady academic dedication.

Lockhart ISD Sets the Standard

Lockhart ISD is the county's educational powerhouse, serving 6,443 students across nine different schools. Luling ISD serves 1,416 students, while the smaller Prairie Lea ISD provides a more intimate environment for 229 students. These districts form the backbone of a community focused on traditional and charter school growth.

Town-Centered Schools with Large Campuses

Ten of the county's 15 schools are located in town settings, creating a centralized feel for most students. Schools are relatively large for the region, averaging 562 students per campus. Lockhart High School is the most significant landmark, with nearly 2,000 students attending the sprawling facility.

Find Your Home in the BBQ Capital

With a large, centralized district like Lockhart ISD, choosing a home in Caldwell County simplifies the school search. The area offers a mix of town convenience and rural space, all backed by a 90% graduation rate. Look for properties near Lockhart's high-performing elementary schools to secure your child's future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Caldwell County

via RiskByCounty

Caldwell County faces elevated U.S. risk

Caldwell County's composite risk score of 79.77 substantially exceeds the national average, ranking as Relatively Low but in the upper tier of county exposure. Flood and tornado risks drive this elevated profile.

Among Texas's highest-risk counties

At 79.77, Caldwell County scores 63 percent above Texas's state average of 49.00, placing it in the top tier for natural disaster risk. Tornado (82.86), flood (87.12), and wildfire (68.00) risks all outpace state averages.

Riskiest county in its cluster

Caldwell County's 79.77 score edges above nearby Burnet County's 76.62, making it the riskiest county in the Central Texas cluster. Its flood risk of 87.12 is particularly acute compared to neighbors.

Flooding and tornadoes dominate threats

Flood risk reaches 87.12 in Caldwell County, reflecting its position along the San Marcos River and vulnerability to spring storms. Tornado exposure at 82.86 makes spring months particularly hazardous.

Flood and tornado coverage non-negotiable

Caldwell County residents must carry separate flood insurance and comprehensive homeowners coverage—standard policies don't cover either threat. Elevating critical systems, installing a safe room, and maintaining drainage systems are vital protective steps.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Caldwell County

via WaterByCounty

Grade F Despite Lower Violation Rate

Caldwell County holds a Grade F with 53 health violations recorded over five years. Interestingly, its rate of 144.3 violations per 100,000 people is significantly better than the state average of 581.9. However, the recurring nature of these health incidents keeps the county's safety grade in the lowest tier.

Watershed Health Status Remains Unassessed

Local streams and rivers in Caldwell County are not currently covered in the federal §303(d) assessment. There is no official data on the percentage of impaired water bodies for this reporting cycle. This absence of data highlights a need for expanded federal oversight of local watersheds.

Extensive Monitoring Network Tracks Local Streams

Caldwell County boasts 34 monitoring sites that have generated 11,302 measurements in five years. Physical characteristics and nutrient levels are the most frequently measured groups in the county. This massive dataset offers a high-resolution view of the county’s water chemistry.

San Marcos River Hits Critical Lows

The USGS gauge at Luling reports a discharge of just 97 cfs, a major drop from the 425 cfs mean. This flow is only 23% of the typical volume for this time of year. Such low levels can stress aquatic life and concentrate agricultural or industrial runoff.

Monitor Water Quality During Drought Conditions

The San Marcos River is flowing at only 23% of its typical volume, which may impact the quality of source water. Residents should be aware that lower flows can lead to higher concentrations of nutrients, which are already heavily monitored here. Consider regular filter maintenance to handle potential changes in water chemistry.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Caldwell County

via WeatherByCounty

Subtropical Warmth Dominates the Year

Caldwell County's 69.4°F annual average temperature is nearly 15 degrees higher than the national median. This indicates a climate where heating needs are minimal compared to cooling requirements.

Warmer and Wetter Than State Averages

At 69.4°F, Caldwell is notably warmer than the Texas average of 65.5°F. It also receives 34.9 inches of rain, placing it about 3 inches above the state benchmark for precipitation.

Hotter Than Nearby Burnet County

Caldwell is nearly 3 degrees warmer on average than neighboring Burnet County. It also sees 118 extreme heat days, which is 17 more days of 90°F+ weather than Burnet experiences.

A Marathon of Summer Heat

Summer temperatures average 84.6°F from June through August, fueled by 118 days of extreme heat. Winters are very mild, featuring a January average of 51.7°F and zero recorded annual snowfall.

Focus on Summer Resilience

Outdoor activities should be planned for early morning to avoid the 118 days of extreme heat. Homeowners should prioritize attic ventilation and high-quality cooling systems to manage the 85.3°F July peaks.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Caldwell County

via SoilByCounty

Gravelly Loams of the Alfisol Order

Caldwell County is dominated by Alfisols with a gravelly loam texture that provides a sturdy base for development and farming. The average pH of 7.30 is slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.09. This alkaline lean may require specific plant choices that tolerate higher lime content.

A Gritty and Clay-Rich Blend

The soil features a composition of 42.8% sand and 29.2% clay, creating a heavy but workable profile. This higher clay percentage helps the soil stay firm, but it can become quite sticky when saturated. The 28.0% silt content adds a smooth texture that aids in nutrient delivery to plant roots.

Superior Water Retention and Health

Organic matter stands at 1.69%, slightly outperforming the Texas state average of 1.66%. With an available water capacity of 0.136 in/in, these soils hold more moisture than the typical Texas plot. This storage capacity is a major asset for surviving the intense summer heat waves.

Moderately Drained but Heavy Soils

The county is moderately well drained, but it belongs to hydrologic group D, indicating high runoff potential. Because water moves slowly through the deeper clay layers, managing surface drainage is essential for preventing ponding. This setup is excellent for farm ponds but requires care when planning garden beds.

Gardening Success in Zone 9a

As a Zone 9a region, Caldwell County enjoys mild winters and a long, productive growing season. Fig trees, tomatoes, and zinnias find the alkaline, water-retentive soil very much to their liking. Pick up a shovel and start your garden today to enjoy the bounty of this rich Texas earth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Caldwell County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty in the Blackland Prairies

Caldwell County's lawn difficulty score of 28.4 reflects the challenges of gardening in Hardiness Zone 9a. It sits below the Texas average of 31.7 and far below the national average of 50.0. Maintaining a lush green space here requires significant effort and resources compared to most of the country.

Extreme Heat and High Energy Demand

The county experiences 118 extreme heat days per year, exceeding the state average and putting massive stress on cool-season plants. A high count of 7,375 growing degree days means your lawn stays active for an extended period, requiring frequent maintenance. Annual rainfall of 34.9 inches is helpful but often evaporates quickly during the long, hot summer months.

Managing Alkaline and Heavy Loam

The local soil is a gravelly loam with a pH of 7.30, which is slightly more alkaline than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range. With 29.2% clay content, the ground can become compacted and heavy, potentially restricting root growth. Adding sulfur or organic matter may be necessary to lower the pH and improve nutrient availability for your grass.

Surviving a Full Year of Drought

Caldwell County has been in drought for all 53 weeks of the past year, with 100% of the area currently in severe conditions. This extreme environment makes water conservation the top priority for any local lawn enthusiast. Relying on native plants and drought-hardy turf is the only sustainable way to manage your landscape in these conditions.

Timing Your Planting for Maximum Resilience

Given the alkaline soil, Zoysia and Bermuda are the most reliable choices for a durable Caldwell County lawn. Your planting window opens on March 5, providing a head start before the summer heat hits its 118-day peak. Because the area is prone to year-long droughts, establishing a deep root system early in the season is critical for survival.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Caldwell County's county score?
Caldwell County, Texas has a composite county score of 22.5 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 Caldwell County rank among counties in Texas?
Caldwell County ranks #247 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 Caldwell County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Caldwell County is $2,871, with an effective tax rate of 1.33%. This earns Caldwell County a tax score of 19.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Caldwell County?
The median household income in Caldwell County, Texas is $68,503 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Caldwell County earns an income score of 63.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Caldwell County, Texas a good place to live?
Caldwell County scores 22.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #247 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Caldwell 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 Caldwell County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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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.