countyscore
52.4
County Score
Safety 73.3Schools 68.8Disaster Risk 65.6

County Report Card

About Castro County, Texas

Exceeding the National Median

Castro County achieves a composite score of 52.4, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This places it in a higher tier of livability compared to many peer counties across the United States.

A Top Texas Contender

With a 52.4 composite, Castro County sits well above the Texas state average of 41.9. It represents one of the more balanced rural options in the state for both safety and education.

Safety, Schools, and Stability

The county boasts a high Safety Score of 73.3 and a strong School Score of 68.8. Housing is highly accessible with a Cost Score of 64.2 and a median home value of just $94,900.

Critical Water and Health Needs

Resource scarcity is a major concern, indicated by a very low Water Score of 8.0. Health services also lag behind, with a dimension score of 22.2.

The Value-Seeker's Safe Harbor

Castro County is perfect for young families looking for safety and good schools on a modest budget. It is a premier choice for those who want their dollar to go far without sacrificing community quality.

Score breakdown

Tax29.6Cost64.2Safety73.3Health22.2Schools68.8Income49.5Risk65.6Water8Weather49.3
🏛29.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠64.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼49.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡73.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤22.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡65.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨34
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱45.4
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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45.8
Swisher County
Texas
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Randall County
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44.5
Parmer County
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Deep Dives

Castro County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Castro County

via TaxByCounty

Castro taxes: well below U.S. norm

Castro County's 1.124% effective tax rate is less than half the national property tax burden, with median taxes of just $1,067 on a $94,900 home. This places Castro in the bottom 5% nationally for residential property tax load.

One of Texas's cheapest

Castro's rate falls well below Texas's 1.276% average and its $1,067 median tax bill ranks among the lowest in the state. Only a handful of Texas counties match Castro's combination of low rates and affordable home values.

Panhandle's most affordable option

Among surrounding panhandle counties, Castro offers the lowest absolute tax bill despite a mid-range effective rate of 1.124%. The county's significantly lower home values—just $94,900 median—translate to minimal annual tax obligations.

Castro's modest tax burden

A typical Castro County home valued at $94,900 generates only $1,067 in annual property taxes at the 1.124% rate. Even with mortgage-related fees, annual costs hover around $1,816—among Texas's lowest.

Review your appraisal annually

Castro homeowners should verify their assessments reflect actual market conditions, especially in volatile rural markets. An appeal to the appraisal district could result in meaningful tax reductions if your home is overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Castro County

via CostByCounty

Castro County outperforms on housing affordability

Castro County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% undercuts both the national average (15% typically) and Texas's 18.1% state benchmark. This Panhandle county offers renters genuine relief from housing cost pressures compared to the broader American landscape.

Above-average affordability in the Panhandle

Castro County ranks among Texas's more affordable regions, with a 17.2% rent-to-income ratio nearly a full point below the state average. This positioning reflects strong household incomes paired with moderate rental costs across the county.

Comparison: Castro in the Panhandle context

Castro County's median rent of $910 sits just below the state average of $963, while median household income of $63,485 slightly lags Carson County ($84,583) but outpaces Cochran County ($42,137). The balanced housing-to-income ratio here compares favorably to most neighboring Panhandle counties.

Lean housing costs, strong homeownership

Renters in Castro County spend $910 monthly from a $63,485 household income, while homeowners pay just $564 toward a median home value of $94,900—among the lowest in the region. Mortgage costs here are particularly modest, making homeownership accessible for first-time buyers.

Castro County welcomes newcomers

If affordable homeownership is your priority, Castro County's $94,900 median home value and $564 monthly ownership cost rank among Texas's best opportunities. The county balances farm-community values with reasonable housing burdens that give relocated families real financial breathing room.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Castro County

via IncomeByCounty

Castro County slightly below U.S. average

Castro County's median household income of $63,485 falls $11,270 short of the national median of $74,755. While below the national benchmark, the county still supports solid middle-class living standards locally.

Near Texas average, modest income growth

Castro County's $63,485 median income sits just $1,252 below the Texas state average of $64,737, putting it virtually on par. The county reflects Texas's broader income profile without significant advantage or disadvantage statewide.

Middle ground among regional peers

Castro County's $63,485 sits between lower-income Cass County ($54,328) and higher-earning Carson County ($84,583), representing a moderate position. Nearby Childress County ($60,333) and Cherokee County ($59,830) show similar income patterns.

Housing affordable on median income

At 17.2%, Castro County's rent-to-income ratio stays comfortably below the 30% affordability standard, indicating reasonable housing costs relative to income. The median home value of $94,900 is among the most accessible in the region.

Affordable housing enables saving power

Castro County's lower housing costs create opportunity to direct income toward savings and investments. Lock in low property values and build equity while allocating surplus income to retirement and emergency funds.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Castro County

via CrimeByCounty

Top-Tier National Safety Ranking

Castro County boasts one of the best safety profiles in the country with a score of 99.0 out of 100. Its total crime rate of 636.8 per 100,000 is nearly 75% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These figures place the county in an elite bracket of safe American communities.

A Texas Safety Standout

Castro County significantly beats the Texas average safety score of 96.8 with its own score of 99.0. Local agencies report crime at a rate roughly one-third of the statewide average of 2,052.5 per 100,000. It remains a very safe choice for Texas residents.

Comparable to Carson County

Castro County mirrors the high safety performance of Carson County, with both reporting rates under 640 per 100,000. They both maintain 99.0 safety scores, highlighting a regional commitment to low-crime environments. These counties represent some of the most secure territory in the state.

Analyzing Violent and Property Crime

The county records 162.6 violent crimes and 474.2 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Both categories are well below national averages, particularly property crime which is a fraction of the 2,015.7 national mark. This data suggests that both personal and property risks are minimal.

Stay Vigilant to Stay Safe

Low crime rates thrive when residents stay alert and look out for one another. Consider joining a neighborhood watch program or using smart doorbells to monitor deliveries. Maintaining these habits ensures Castro County remains a safe haven for everyone.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Castro County

via HealthByCounty

Strong life expectancy, but high uninsured rate

Castro County residents live to 75.4 years—exceeding the U.S. average of 76.4 by just one year—yet 25.3% lack health insurance, among the highest rates nationally. This paradox suggests underlying vulnerabilities despite relatively good longevity.

Life expectancy strong, coverage crisis looms

Castro County's 75.4-year life expectancy beats the Texas average of 74.3 years, but its 25.3% uninsured rate soars past the state average of 19.8% by over 5 percentage points. This gap reveals a county where many people lack insurance despite living relatively long lives.

Best longevity, worst uninsured rate

Castro County boasts the region's second-highest life expectancy at 75.4 years, yet carries the worst insurance burden—25.3% uninsured, far exceeding neighbors like Chambers (14%) and Clay (16.1%). Primary care access is moderate at 27 per 100K, but mental health providers are sparse at just 14 per 100K.

Coverage crisis threatens preventive care

With over 1 in 4 residents uninsured, Castro County faces a critical coverage gap that puts vulnerable populations at risk for delayed diagnoses and high medical debt. Primary care is available at 27 providers per 100K, but the lack of mental health providers (14 per 100K) means many struggle to access behavioral health support.

Uninsured? Coverage is within reach

Castro County residents should visit Healthcare.gov or contact local health departments immediately to explore Medicaid, CHIP, or marketplace plans. One in four uninsured residents represents a public health emergency—getting covered protects both individuals and the community.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Castro County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small Districts Serving the High Plains

Castro County's education needs are met by 5 public schools distributed across 3 school districts. The system serves 1,554 students total, providing a streamlined pathway from elementary through high school. This infrastructure serves a mix of small towns and surrounding agricultural areas.

Academic Excellence Above State Averages

Castro County delivers a strong 93.1% graduation rate, outpacing the Texas state average of 91.6%. The county achieves a school score of 57.0, which is higher than the state median of 55.3. Local districts spend $7,869 per pupil, slightly exceeding the state average of $7,498 to support student outcomes.

Dimmitt ISD Drives Local Enrollment

Dimmitt ISD is the primary educational provider, serving 1,097 students across 3 schools. Nazareth ISD and Hart ISD also serve the county, managing one PK-12 school each with 250 and 207 students respectively. There are no charter schools in the area, meaning 100% of students attend traditional community districts.

Community-Focused Schools with Large Reach

Schools here offer a mix of town and rural settings, with Richardson Elementary in Dimmitt standing as the largest campus at 524 students. The average school size is 311 students, ensuring a personal educational experience. Small-town staples like Hart ISD and Nazareth School provide all-in-one campuses for their respective communities.

Home Values Backed by Strong Schools

If you are looking for a home in a community that prioritizes graduation success, Dimmitt and Nazareth offer excellent options. These districts provide stable, high-performing environments that make the area attractive to families. Research local real estate to find a home near these quality local schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Castro County

via RiskByCounty

Castro's risk well below national norms

Castro County's composite risk score of 34.41 sits substantially below the national average, earning a Very Low risk rating. The county benefits from geographic positioning that shields it from major hurricane exposure and extreme flood scenarios.

Significantly safer than Texas average

At 34.41, Castro County's risk score remains roughly 30% lower than Texas's average of 49.00, placing it among the state's more resilient counties. The county ranks favorably for natural disaster exposure statewide.

Mid-range in Panhandle risk profile

Castro County sits between the safer Clay County (14.28) and the riskier Carson County (25.22), offering moderate security compared to its Panhandle neighbors. Its wildfire risk (73.79) and tornado risk (53.94) profile mirrors regional patterns typical of the High Plains.

Wildfire and tornado vulnerabilities dominate

Wildfire risk (73.79) and tornado risk (53.94) represent Castro County's primary natural hazards, while flood risk remains minimal at 11.23. Hurricane exposure is zero, and earthquake risk is low at 23.60.

Prepare for wind and grassland fire

Homeowners should prioritize homeowners insurance with enhanced wind coverage to address tornado and wildfire smoke exposure. Creating defensible space around properties—clearing dead vegetation and maintaining distances from structures—provides critical wildfire protection in this agricultural community.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Castro County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler High Plains Territory

At 56.5°F, Castro County is closer to the national median temperature than its coastal neighbors. This semi-arid region is much cooler and drier than the typical Texas profile.

Far Below State Averages

The county's 56.5°F average is nine degrees cooler than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. Rainfall is also sparse, totaling only 19.4 inches compared to the 31.9-inch state benchmark.

Coolest in the Region

Castro is notably cooler than Childress County to the east, which averages 62.3°F. It represents the higher, drier, and windier conditions found on the Llano Estacado.

Snowy Winters and Brief Heat

Winters bring a substantial 8.0 inches of snow and a chilly average of 37.7°F. Summers are relatively mild for Texas, though the county still sees 69 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F.

Dress for Four Real Seasons

Residents need heavy winter gear and snow removal tools given the 8-inch annual snowfall. Xeriscaping is recommended for landscaping because the 19.4 inches of rain provides limited natural irrigation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Castro County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Alkaline High Plains Soil

Castro County's soil is notably alkaline with an average pH of 7.73, well above the national median of 6.5. This pH level is higher than the state average of 7.09, which can impact the availability of micronutrients like iron. Proper management is key for local farmers to keep crops healthy in these conditions.

Heavy Soil with Clay Influence

The soil contains 29.0% clay and 32.5% silt, giving it more body than many other Texas counties. This 38.5% sand mix provides enough structure for agricultural workability while the clay helps store essential nutrients. It is a dense, productive mix typical of the productive High Plains region.

Rich in Organic Matter

At 2.24%, Castro County's organic matter exceeds both the state average of 1.66% and the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an impressive water capacity of 0.157 in/in, these soils are built for high productivity. This fertile foundation makes it one of the more robust agricultural areas in the state.

Slow Drainage and High Runoff

Belonging to hydrologic group D, these soils have a very slow infiltration rate when saturated. This means that during heavy rains, water is more likely to run off the surface than soak in deeply. Producers must manage irrigation carefully to prevent standing water and ensure the ground absorbs moisture effectively.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 7a

With a USDA Hardiness Zone of 7a, Castro County is ideal for a variety of hardy crops and regional staples. The high water capacity supports the growth of corn, cotton, and wheat under irrigation. Gardeners should prioritize plants that tolerate alkaline conditions and enjoy the long, sunny days.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Castro County

via LawnByCounty

A manageable climate for West Texas lawns

Castro County scores a 45.4 for lawn difficulty, making it one of the easier places in Texas to maintain a yard. This score is significantly better than the state average of 31.7 and approaches the national baseline of 50.0. The hardiness zone 7a environment offers a relatively balanced platform for homeowners compared to the more intense heat of the south.

Low precipitation demands supplemental watering

With only 19.4 inches of annual rainfall, the climate is much drier than the 30-50 inches required for optimal lawn health. The county sees 69 extreme heat days, which is much lower than the Texas average of 105, reducing the risk of heat-induced dormancy. You must rely on irrigation systems to bridge the gap left by the arid climate.

Treating alkaline and clay-heavy soils

Soil pH in the county averages 7.73, which can limit the availability of essential micronutrients like iron. The ground contains 29.0% clay and 38.5% sand, creating a dense structure that may drain slowly. Incorporating organic compost will help improve the soil structure and buffer the high pH levels for better grass health.

Moderate drought history requires vigilance

Homeowners navigated 7 weeks of drought over the last year, and the entire county is currently listed as abnormally dry. While severe drought is not currently a threat, consistent water conservation remains vital in this low-rainfall region. Mulching grass clippings back into the lawn helps retain soil moisture and returns vital nutrients to the ground.

Optimizing your lawn for the High Plains

Buffalo grass and Blue Grama are native-friendly options that thrive in zone 7a with minimal water once established. The best time to start your lawn is after the April 22 spring frost, giving the grass six months to mature before the October 23 fall frost. These varieties are well-suited to handle the 3,963 growing degree days typical of the region.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Castro County's county score?
Castro County, Texas has a composite county score of 52.4 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 Castro County rank among counties in Texas?
Castro County ranks #49 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 Castro County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Castro County is $1,067, with an effective tax rate of 1.12%. This earns Castro County a tax score of 29.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Castro County?
The median household income in Castro County, Texas is $63,485 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Castro County earns an income score of 49.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Castro County, Texas a good place to live?
Castro County scores 52.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #49 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Castro 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 Castro County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.