countyscore
29.7
County Score
Cost of Living 56.5Schools 51Water Quality 49.6

County Report Card

About Cameron County, Texas

Low Scoring Against National Trends

Cameron County’s composite score of 29.7 is significantly lower than the national median of 50.0. High risk factors and a heavy tax burden contribute to this lower ranking.

Lagging Behind State Metrics

With a score of 29.7, Cameron County falls well below the Texas state average of 41.9. It faces some of the highest tax rates in the state, which impacts overall resident satisfaction.

Affordable Housing and Good Schools

The county offers great affordability with a cost score of 56.5 and a median home value of $120,000. Education is also a bright spot, with a school score of 51.0.

Environmental Risk and High Taxes

The risk score is critically low at 2.7, reflecting high vulnerability to natural disasters. Residents also face a steep 1.622% effective tax rate, resulting in a low tax score of 9.0.

Best for Price-Sensitive Homeowners

Cameron County is best for those who prioritize low-cost homeownership and decent schools above all else. However, residents must be prepared for high property taxes and significant environmental risks.

20406080100956.517.621.15117.32.749.67.6Tax9Cost56.5Safety17.6Health21.1Schools51Income17.3Risk2.7Water49.6Weather7.629.7/100
This county
National avg
6 below average

Cameron County DNA

Foverall

How Cameron County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Cameron County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Weather & Climate (7.6/100), though Cost of Living (56.5/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
9-43
Cost
56.5+8.5
Safety
17.6-37.4
Health
21.1-28.9
Schools
51
Income
17.3-33.7
Risk
2.7-44.3
Water
49.6-8.399999999999999
Weather
7.6-48.4
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$120,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$899/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$120,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$35,960/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $51,334/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

13.0

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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Deep Dives

Cameron County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cameron County

via TaxByCounty

Cameron County: Nation's priciest tax rate

Cameron County's effective rate of 1.622% ranks among the highest in America, 90% above the national median of 1.8% and placing it in the top 10% of U.S. tax burdens. Despite a median home value of just $120,000—less than half the national median—annual property taxes of $1,946 consume nearly 1.6% of home value.

Texas's steepest tax rate by far

Cameron County's 1.622% effective rate blows past all other Texas counties profiled, running 27% above the state average of 1.276%. This extreme rate means homeowners pay $1,946 annually—nearly matching the state median tax despite owning homes valued $96,000 below the statewide norm.

Dramatically outpaces the entire region

Cameron County's 1.622% rate towers above every regional peer—50% higher than Calhoun's already-punishing 1.397%, and nearly three times Burleson's 1.044%. This South Texas outlier burden reflects unique local fiscal pressures and makes Cameron the region's most expensive place to own property relative to home values.

Rio Grande Valley's steepest tax load

On Cameron County's $120,000 median home, annual property taxes reach approximately $1,946—or about $162 per month. With mortgage escrow factored in, homeowners pay $2,816 yearly, making property ownership here significantly more expensive than comparable homes in neighboring counties.

Appraisal challenge is critical here

In Cameron County's extreme-tax environment, overassessment compounds dramatically—a 10% appraisal error costs $200+ annually on modest homes. Homeowners should absolutely review their assessments, compare to recent sales, and file formal protests; many succeed in securing substantial reductions that pay for the effort.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cameron County

via CostByCounty

Cameron County faces acute affordability stress

Cameron County renters spend 21.0% of income on rent, significantly above the national average of 18.1% and the Texas state average of 18.1%. With a median household income of just $51,334—$23,421 below the national average of $74,755—residents face the steepest housing-cost burden in this comparison.

Among Texas's most stressed housing markets

Cameron County ranks among the least affordable counties statewide, combining a high 21.0% rent-to-income ratio with the lowest median income ($51,334) of these eight counties. This Rio Grande Valley location faces genuine affordability challenges despite modest absolute rent costs.

Lowest incomes, highest cost burden

Cameron's $899 rent is reasonable by statewide standards, but the $51,334 median income—lowest in this sample—makes it the percentagewise most expensive for renters. Neighboring counties like Calhoun ($71,870 income) and Brown ($55,305) fare better despite similar or higher absolute rents.

Income constraints drive housing stress

Renters pay $899 monthly while homeowners carry $689, with median homes valued at just $120,000—the cheapest purchase prices in Texas. Yet on a $51,334 annual income, renters dedicate 21.0% of earnings to housing, leaving limited funds for other essentials.

Cameron County requires careful budgeting

If you're considering relocation to the Rio Grande Valley, Cameron County's low home prices ($120,000) appeal to buyers, but renters should carefully verify that the 21.0% rent-to-income ratio leaves adequate funds for your household needs. Compare your expected income against local $899 rents to ensure financial stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cameron County

via IncomeByCounty

Cameron County faces income challenge

Cameron County's median household income of $51,334 falls 31% below the U.S. median of $74,755, representing one of the lowest income levels in the nation. This significant gap signals substantial economic hardship compared to national averages.

Lowest in Texas

At $51,334, Cameron County trails the Texas state average of $64,737 by more than $13,400, ranking near the bottom statewide. The significant gap underscores Cameron County as one of Texas's most economically challenged regions.

Lowest income in the region

Cameron County's $51,334 income is $4,000 to $25,800 below every surrounding county analyzed, including Brown ($55,305), Camp ($55,061), and Caldwell ($68,503). The stark regional disadvantage reflects concentrated economic hardship in the county.

Housing costs strain finances

Cameron County's 21.0% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among analyzed counties, meaning housing expenses exceed recommended affordability thresholds. With median home values at $120,000 and very low incomes, many households face genuine affordability crises.

Focus on income growth first

Cameron County residents should prioritize immediate financial stability through budgeting, emergency savings, and job skill development before investing. Organizations offering financial literacy, workforce training, and credit counseling can help households build the foundation needed for long-term wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cameron County

via CrimeByCounty

Cameron County Tracks Near National Norms

Cameron County holds a safety score of 96.5, which is just slightly below the state average. Its total crime rate of 2202.6 per 100K remains lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Aligning Closely with Texas Averages

The county's safety score of 96.5 sits just under the Texas average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 2202.6 per 100K is slightly higher than the state average of 2052.5.

Local Law Enforcement Intensity

Cameron County uses 30 reporting agencies to manage crime, more than most neighboring counties. This large network addresses a higher crime volume than seen in smaller counties like Callahan or Camp.

Examining the Crime Mix

Violent crime in Cameron County sits at 391.1 per 100K, which is slightly above the national average of 369.8. However, its property crime rate of 1811.5 remains below the national benchmark of 2,015.7.

Enhance Your Personal Security Plan

With violent crime slightly above national averages, residents should consider comprehensive security systems. Investing in doorbell cameras and improved lighting helps protect both families and property.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Cameron County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive Urban Education Hub

Cameron County operates a sprawling network of 175 public schools serving nearly 100,000 students. The infrastructure is immense, featuring 94 elementary schools, 30 middle schools, and 39 high schools across nine districts. Charter schools are a significant presence here, with 26 campuses representing 14.9% of the total school inventory.

Consistently Beating State Graduation Averages

The county maintains a 92.0% graduation rate, which sits above the Texas average of 91.6% and the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $6,876 is lower than the state average, the sheer scale of the system allows for diverse program offerings. The composite school score of 54.3 reflects a solid performance across its many campuses.

Brownsville ISD Leads a Multi-District System

Brownsville ISD is the regional giant, managing 56 schools and 37,898 students. Harlingen CISD and San Benito CISD also play major roles, together serving over 26,000 additional students. With 26 charter schools available, parents in Cameron County have some of the most diverse educational choices in South Texas.

Dynamic City and Suburban Campuses

The majority of schools—103 in total—are located in city settings, giving the county a vibrant, urban academic feel. Schools are often very large, with Los Fresnos High School leading the way at 3,272 students. Despite the urban focus, 30 rural schools ensure that families in outlying areas still have local access to education.

Abundant Choice in the Rio Grande Valley

Home buyers in Cameron County can choose between major city districts or specialized charter programs. The area's 92% graduation rate and extensive extracurricular options make it a top choice for active families. Whether you prefer a suburban Harlingen home or a Brownsville city residence, great schools are always nearby.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cameron County

via RiskByCounty

Cameron County faces exceptional risk

Cameron County's composite risk score of 97.30 ranks as exceptionally high both nationally and statewide, earning a Relatively High rating. Nearly every major hazard type presents significant exposure in this southernmost Texas county.

Texas's most exposed county overall

At 97.30, Cameron County scores nearly double Texas's state average of 49.00, representing the state's highest natural disaster risk. Hurricane (99.04), flood (92.81), tornado (85.15), and wildfire (83.78) risks all rank among state highs.

Dramatically riskier than inland counties

Cameron County's 97.30 score vastly exceeds all neighboring counties, including coastal Calhoun County's 66.25 and inland peers. Its position at the southernmost tip of Texas, directly in hurricane paths, creates this unique exposure profile.

Hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes converge

Hurricanes pose the most acute threat at 99.04, with Category 4 and 5 storms regularly striking this southernmost county. Flooding (92.81) amplifies hurricane damage, while tornadoes (85.15) threaten across seasons.

Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable

Cameron County residents must carry hurricane-specific homeowners insurance, separate flood insurance, and backup power—standard policies leave dangerous gaps. Reinforced concrete construction, impact-resistant windows, and elevated utilities are essential investments in this highest-risk county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Cameron County

via WaterByCounty

Cameron County Outperforms State Safety Averages

The county earns a Grade D despite having 75 health violations over the past five years. Its violation rate of 17.1 per 100,000 residents is remarkably low compared to the Texas average of 581.9. While violations occur, they affect a much smaller portion of the population than in other regions.

Federal Watershed Data Still Unreported

Federal regulators have not yet assessed local water bodies in Cameron County for the current reporting cycle. As a result, there is no official data on the percentage of impaired water bodies under Clean Water Act standards. The county's watershed health remains unclassified by the EPA for now.

Aggressive Monitoring with 18,571 Results

Cameron County has a robust monitoring footprint with 53 sites and over 18,000 measurements recorded recently. Monitoring efforts focus heavily on organics, pesticides, and microbiological contaminants. This high volume of data provides essential oversight for the county's complex water systems.

Boca Chica Gauge Reports Stagnant Flow

The Main Drain at Boca Chica Highway currently reports 0 cfs, indicating no measurable flow. This is significantly below the already low long-term mean of 3 cfs for this location. At just 4% of typical flow, the area is experiencing extreme hydrologic stagnation.

Watch for Contaminants in Low-Flow Conditions

With streamflow at nearly zero, pollutants and microbiological agents can become highly concentrated. Cameron County’s extensive monitoring of pesticides and bacteria is a vital tool for residents during these stagnant periods. While the violation rate is low, the Grade D status suggests ongoing vigilance is needed.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cameron County

via WeatherByCounty

Extreme Southern Heat and Humidity

Cameron County is one of the warmest in the country with a 75.0°F annual average. This is a full 20 degrees warmer than the national median, creating a truly tropical environment.

Well Above State Temperature Norms

At 75.0°F, Cameron is much hotter than the 65.5°F Texas state average. However, its 26.2 inches of rain is below the state average, indicating a drier tropical climate.

The Hot, Dry Southern Tip

Cameron is significantly warmer and drier than coastal Calhoun, which receives 15 inches more rain. It averages 121 days of extreme heat, making it one of the most consistently hot regions in Texas.

Tropical Summers and Non-Existent Winter

Winter is a misnomer here, with a January average of 61.3°F and almost zero snow. Summer is a marathon, with 121 days over 90°F and a July average of 85.3°F.

Year-Round Cooling is Mandatory

HVAC systems run almost year-round to manage the constant warmth and 121 extreme heat days. Residents should prioritize sun protection and hydration for an outdoor lifestyle that rarely sees a freeze.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cameron County

via SoilByCounty

The Alkaline Soils of the Delta

Cameron County features significantly alkaline soil with an average pH of 7.49, well above the 6.5 national median. This score is also higher than the state average of 7.09, which often requires growers to use acidifying amendments. The overall soil score of 18.4 reflects the unique challenges of this tropical coastal environment.

High Silt and Clay Content

The soil contains 28.7% clay and 30.6% silt, making it feel quite heavy and dense. While the 34.6% sand content helps slightly with texture, this is a soil that holds onto moisture and can become compacted easily. It requires careful management to ensure roots have enough oxygen to thrive.

Lean Organic Levels and Water Storage

Organic matter is relatively low at 1.31%, falling short of the Texas average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.117 in/in is also below the state average of 0.133, meaning the soil holds less usable water for plants. Consistent mulching is a key strategy here to build health and retain every drop of moisture.

Managing Water in Hydrologic Group D

As part of hydrologic group D, this county faces very slow water infiltration and high runoff risks. In the flat terrain of the Rio Grande Valley, this often leads to drainage challenges during tropical rain events. Proper grading and drainage infrastructure are critical for both farming and urban development.

Tropical Possibilities in Zone 10a

Cameron County is one of the few places in the U.S. in Hardiness Zone 10a, allowing for citrus, palms, and tropical fruits. The soil and climate combination is perfect for grapefruit, oranges, and heat-loving bougainvillea. Embrace the valley sun and start your tropical garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cameron County

via LawnByCounty

Extreme Southern Heat and Arid Challenges

Cameron County scores a 29.6 on the lawn difficulty scale, placing it slightly below the state average of 31.7. In the tropical Hardiness Zone 10a, the primary challenge is the sheer intensity of the sun and limited rainfall. Maintaining a traditional green lawn at the southern tip of Texas requires constant vigilance.

A Desert-Like Environment with Massive Heat

The county receives only 26.2 inches of rain annually, well below the ideal range for lawns, while enduring 121 extreme heat days. An incredible 9,194 growing degree days means grass almost never stops growing, creating a relentless maintenance schedule. This combination of low water and high heat creates a high-evaporation environment that stresses all but the toughest plants.

Managing High-pH Southern Soils

The soil pH here is 7.49, which is quite alkaline and can make it difficult for grass to access necessary nutrients. The soil has a significant clay component (28.7%), which can hold onto moisture but also becomes very hard when dry. You may need to apply soil acidifiers or specialized fertilizers to counteract the high pH and keep your turf green.

Battling Severe Drought in the Rio Grande Valley

With 71.7% of the county in severe drought and 100% in dry conditions, water is a precious resource for lawn care. Despite having only 19 weeks of drought in the past year, the current conditions are intense and require significant irrigation. Xeroscaping or utilizing native, drought-resistant grasses is highly recommended for long-term sustainability.

A Year-Round Growing Opportunity

With a frost-free window that effectively spans the entire year, you can plant almost anytime, though early spring is best. Seashore Paspalum or Bermuda are the strongest candidates for the high-pH soil and 121-day heat season. Because the rainfall is only 26.2 inches, ensure your irrigation system is efficient before you begin any major planting.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cameron County's county score?
Cameron County, Texas has a composite county score of 29.7 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 Cameron County rank among counties in Texas?
Cameron County ranks #217 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 Cameron County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Cameron County is $1,946, with an effective tax rate of 1.62%. This earns Cameron County a tax score of 9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cameron County?
The median household income in Cameron County, Texas is $51,334 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cameron County earns an income score of 17.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cameron County, Texas a good place to live?
Cameron County scores 29.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #217 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Cameron 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 Cameron 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.