countyscore
32.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 97.1Schools 78.5Disaster Risk 48.2

County Report Card

About Chambers County, Texas

High Income Meets High Costs

Chambers County records a composite score of 32.1, trailing the national median of 50.0. While it offers immense wealth, other livability factors drag down its overall ranking.

Wealthy but Underperforming State Averages

The county’s 32.1 score falls below the Texas average of 41.9. Despite its extreme financial resources, it lacks the balance found in other parts of the state.

Elite Incomes and Education

The county features a staggering Income Score of 97.1, with a median household income of $108,114. Residents also benefit from a top-tier School Score of 78.5.

Struggling with Safety and Cost

Safety is a major concern with a score of 0.5, while a Cost Score of 7.1 highlights extreme housing expenses. Median gross rent sits high at $1,548 per month.

The High-Earning Professional’s Trade-Off

Chambers County is built for high-income earners who prioritize career growth and elite schools. It suits those willing to pay a premium for housing and navigate lower safety rankings.

Score breakdown

Tax28.9Cost7.1Safety0.5Health42.8Schools78.5Income97.1Risk48.2Water9Weather32.3
🏛28.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼97.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡0.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤42.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓78.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡48.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤32.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨31.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱23.8
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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28.7
Liberty County
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Jefferson County
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19.8
Harris County
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Hardin County
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Orange County
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Montgomery County
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Deep Dives

Chambers County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Chambers County

via TaxByCounty

Chambers taxes above national median

Chambers County's 1.135% effective rate produces a median tax bill of $3,290—exceeding the national median of $2,690 by about 22%. This places Chambers in the top half of U.S. counties for property tax burden, driven by home values near the national average.

Higher than Texas average

Chambers's effective rate of 1.135% sits slightly below Texas's 1.276% state average, but its median home value of $289,900 is substantially higher than the state median. The resulting $3,290 tax bill exceeds Texas's median by about $1,097.

Premium taxes, premium homes

Chambers's median home value significantly outpaces most neighboring counties, explaining its higher absolute tax burden despite a moderate effective rate. Compared to rural neighbors like Castro ($94,900 median home value), Chambers represents a more developed, higher-value market.

Chambers tax bill explained

At Chambers County's median home value of $289,900, property owners pay approximately $3,290 annually in taxes at the 1.135% rate. With mortgage add-ons, annual obligations can reach $3,970—reflecting the county's relatively affluent market.

Challenge high valuations

Chambers homeowners paying taxes on $3,000+ annual bills should closely scrutinize their appraisals for accuracy. Many properties are assessed above fair market value, and successful appeals can save hundreds of dollars yearly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Chambers County

via CostByCounty

Chambers County: Premium Houston-area housing

Chambers County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio holds steady despite median rents of $1,548—among the highest in our analysis—because median household income reaches $108,114, well above the national median of $74,755. This affluent coastal county commands premium housing prices matched by premium local wages.

High costs, high incomes in Chambers

With a 17.2% rent-to-income ratio, Chambers County sits below Texas's 18.1% average despite housing costs that far exceed the state norm. The county's above-average incomes ($108,114 vs. state median) make higher housing prices manageable for residents here.

Comparison: Chambers as Houston gateway

Chambers County's $1,548 median rent dwarfs rural Panhandle counties and even surpasses the state average of $963 by 60%, reflecting its position near the Houston metro. Yet its household income of $108,114 is roughly double that of neighboring rural counties, justifying the higher housing costs.

Premium pricing for premium incomes

At $1,548 monthly, Chambers County renters allocate 17.2% of their $108,114 income to rent, while homeowners pay $1,521 toward a median home value of $289,900. These figures reflect a prosperous coastal county where housing costs remain proportionate to local earning power.

Chambers for affluent Houston arrivals

If you're relocating to the Houston metro with a six-figure income, Chambers County delivers premium housing in a thriving coastal community where costs align with earnings. The county's 17.2% housing burden leaves significant discretionary income for other life priorities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Chambers County

via IncomeByCounty

Chambers County's income ranks among the nation's best

At $108,114, Chambers County's median household income towers $33,359 above the national median of $74,755. The county ranks in the top 10% nationally, reflecting a highly prosperous economy.

Highest earner in Texas's sample

Chambers County's median household income of $108,114 exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737 by a remarkable $43,377, or 67%. The county stands among Texas's wealthiest communities by household income.

Chambers far outearns regional counties

At $108,114, Chambers County residents earn substantially more than any peer in this analysis—nearly $24,000 above Carson County ($84,583) and more than double Cass County ($54,328). This income lead is the region's most dramatic.

Strong income sustains luxury housing market

Despite the highest median home value in the region at $289,900, Chambers County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio remains well below the 30% threshold. High incomes easily support premium housing costs.

Leverage Chambers's wealth-building advantage

With income well above state and national levels, Chambers County households can aggressively invest and diversify. Consider maxing retirement contributions, establishing brokerage accounts, and exploring real estate and business ownership to accelerate wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Chambers County

via CrimeByCounty

Higher Incidents Near the Coast

Chambers County faces a total crime rate of 10,047.4 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This elevated activity results in a safety score of 84.1 out of 100. The data reflects a much higher volume of reported incidents than typical U.S. counties.

Trailing State Safety Benchmarks

With a safety score of 84.1, Chambers County falls below the Texas average score of 96.8. Its total crime rate is nearly five times the state average of 2,052.5 per 100,000 people. Local law enforcement manages a high volume of cases relative to the regional population.

Comparing Coastal and Inland Trends

Chambers County reports much higher crime rates than Cherokee County, which sits at 2,003.0 per 100,000. While some regional factors may influence these numbers, the difference of over 8,000 points per 100,000 residents is stark. It represents a significantly different public safety landscape than its northern neighbors.

Property Crime Drives Local Numbers

The vast majority of local crime is property-based, accounting for 8,903.6 incidents per 100,000 residents compared to 1,143.8 for violent crime. Both figures significantly exceed national averages of 2,015.7 and 369.8, respectively. This data suggests a high frequency of theft, burglary, and related offenses.

Prioritize Enhanced Home Security

Given the high rate of property crime, residents should consider comprehensive security systems including cameras and alarms. Hardening your home's exterior and securing vehicles can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a statistic. Active community reporting is vital for improving local safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Chambers County

via HealthByCounty

Chambers leads on longevity and coverage

At 76.2 years, Chambers County residents live longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years, and just 14% lack insurance—well below the national average of 10.9%. Both metrics rank among the strongest in this eight-county comparison.

Top performer on health and insurance

Chambers County's 76.2-year life expectancy exceeds the Texas average of 74.3 years by nearly 2 years, while its 14% uninsured rate beats the state average of 19.8% by 5.8 percentage points. The county is a clear outlier for positive health metrics.

Regional leader in health outcomes

Chambers County's 76.2-year life expectancy is the highest in the region and its 14% uninsured rate is the lowest, setting it apart from peers. However, primary care access is modest at 14 per 100K, and mental health providers at 41 per 100K suggests room for improvement.

Strong insurance, moderate care access

Chambers County's 14% uninsured rate means most residents have coverage, but the primary care provider density of just 14 per 100K is the lowest in this region—potentially causing long wait times. Mental health services are more robust at 41 providers per 100K, supporting behavioral health access.

Keep your coverage strong

Chambers County residents who lack insurance should enroll now through Healthcare.gov or local programs. With strong health outcomes already in place, maintaining universal coverage will help preserve the county's leading position.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Chambers County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rapidly Growing Coastal Education Hub

Chambers County supports a large and growing student population of 11,071 across 17 public schools. The infrastructure is organized into 3 districts, featuring 7 elementary and 6 middle schools to accommodate younger learners. This system is designed for scale, reflecting the county's increasing residential density.

Standard-Setting Graduation and Performance

Chambers County sets a high bar with a remarkable 97.6% graduation rate, far exceeding the national average of 87.0%. The county's school score of 59.1 is among the highest in the region, significantly beating the state average of 55.3. While per-pupil spending of $7,747 is below the national average, the results demonstrate exceptional institutional efficiency.

The Powerhouse of Barbers Hill ISD

Barbers Hill ISD is the county's dominant district, serving 7,339 students across 9 modern campuses. East Chambers ISD and Anahuac ISD provide additional capacity, serving 1,556 and 1,493 students respectively. No charter schools operate in the county, as the traditional districts continue to meet the high demand.

Suburban Scale in a Rural Landscape

Though 12 schools are classified as rural, the average enrollment of 651 students per school gives the area a suburban feel. Barbers Hill High School is a major hub with 1,972 students, making it the largest in the county. In contrast, the Early Childhood Center focuses on the youngest learners with 804 students in a specialized setting.

Settle Near Elite Texas Schools

Chambers County is a premier destination for families who demand high academic standards and modern school facilities. Homes in the Barbers Hill and Anahuac districts are highly sought after due to the area's stellar graduation rates. Begin your home search here to join a community committed to educational excellence.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Chambers County

via RiskByCounty

Chambers faces significant coastal exposure

Chambers County's composite risk score of 51.84 exceeds the national average, driven primarily by its proximity to the Gulf Coast. The county's Relatively Low rating reflects concentrated hurricane (85.77) and tornado (75.64) risks requiring specialized preparation.

Slightly elevated above Texas average

At 51.84, Chambers County's composite risk score surpasses Texas's 49.00 average, placing it in the upper-middle tier statewide. The county ranks among more vulnerable areas, particularly due to coastal hurricane and storm surge exposure.

Highest hurricane risk in comparison set

Chambers County exhibits dramatically higher hurricane exposure (85.77) than any nearby county, reflecting its Gulf Coast location and vulnerable geography. Its 51.84 overall score sits between Cherokee County (61.64) and Cass County (50.80).

Hurricanes and tornadoes create dual threat

Hurricane risk dominates at 85.77, with tornadoes close behind at 75.64, creating a severe weather combination unique to Chambers's coastal position. Wildfire risk (78.85) and flood risk (55.00) add additional layers of vulnerability in this low-lying Gulf region.

Hurricane insurance is non-negotiable here

Homeowners must secure comprehensive coverage including hurricane, wind, and flood insurance—the latter particularly critical given the county's 55.00 flood exposure and storm surge vulnerability. Regular property maintenance and storm-resistant upgrades significantly reduce loss during major hurricanes.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Chambers County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Coastal Humidity

With an average temperature of 68.7°F, Chambers County stays much warmer than the national median. Its location on the Gulf Coast creates a humid, high-precipitation environment.

One of Texas's Wettest Places

Chambers is significantly warmer and wetter than the state averages of 65.5°F and 31.9 inches of rain. The county receives a massive 59.7 inches of annual precipitation, nearly doubling the state norm.

A Saturated Coastal Climate

The county is much wetter than Cherokee County, which sits further inland and receives 10 inches less rain. The Gulf influence keeps winter temperatures at a mild 54.3°F, much higher than inland neighbors.

Endless Humidity, Rare Snow

The county sees 68 days above 90°F, but the coastal air keeps temperatures more stable than the interior. Snow is extremely rare at 0.2 inches, while winter averages stay warm at 54.3°F.

Focus on Moisture Control

Residents must maintain high-capacity HVAC systems to manage persistent coastal humidity. Robust flood insurance is a necessity given the 59.7 inches of rain and potential for tropical storms.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Chambers County

via SoilByCounty

Strongly Acidic Coastal Soils

Chambers County features a very acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.17, far below the national median of 6.5. This is much more acidic than the Texas average of 7.09, which is common in wet, coastal environments. Many local plants require acid-loving adaptations to thrive in this specific chemistry.

Balanced Coastal Textures

The soil is a fairly even split of 33.9% sand and 34.8% silt, with 23.1% clay providing the necessary binding. This composition allows for decent moisture retention without being as heavy as pure clay. It is a versatile texture that supports the diverse ecosystems found along the Texas coast.

Exceptionally High Organic Matter

With 2.48% organic matter, Chambers County far exceeds the state average of 1.66% and the national 2.0% benchmark. This high carbon content, paired with a water capacity of 0.149 in/in, creates a nutrient-rich environment for plant life. The soil's ability to hold onto water is a major asset for local agriculture.

Managing Water in Group D Soils

The county's soil falls into hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration and high runoff potential. In this low-lying coastal region, managing water flow and drainage is a constant priority for residents and farmers alike. These soils stay wet longer after rain, which can be a challenge for traditional gardening.

Tropical Growth in Zone 9b

Chambers County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b, allowing for a nearly year-round growing season. The acidic, organic-rich soil is perfect for blueberries, azaleas, and even some citrus varieties. Gardeners should embrace the warm, humid climate and the unique opportunities provided by these coastal soils.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Chambers County

via LawnByCounty

High difficulty for Gulf Coast lawns

Chambers County presents a tough environment for lawn care with a difficulty score of 23.8, falling well below the state average of 31.7. Located in hardiness zone 9b, the extreme humidity and heat create a high-maintenance landscape. You will need to invest more time and resources than the average Texan to maintain a healthy lawn here.

Excessive rainfall and long growing seasons

The county receives a massive 59.7 inches of annual rain, which often exceeds the upper limit of ideal lawn moisture. A staggering 7,049 growing degree days ensures that your grass grows nearly year-round, requiring a rigorous mowing schedule. Despite having only 68 extreme heat days, the sheer length of the warm season keeps the pressure on your turf.

Amending highly acidic coastal soils

The local soil is quite acidic with a pH of 5.17, far below the preferred 6.0-7.0 range for most grass types. While the soil has a balanced mix of 23.1% clay and 33.9% sand, the high acidity can lead to nutrient deficiencies and poor root development. Regular applications of pelletized lime are necessary to raise the pH and unlock soil nutrients.

Managing severe drought in a wet climate

Despite high annual rainfall, the county endured 23 weeks of drought last year and currently faces 100% severe drought coverage. This paradox means your lawn can go from flooded to parched quickly, making a flexible irrigation plan essential. Focus on water conservation during these severe spells by allowing the grass to grow longer and shade its own roots.

Selecting turf for the humid 9b zone

St. Augustine grass is the standard for this region because it tolerates the humidity and high rainfall better than most species. With a very early last frost on February 12 and a late first frost on December 6, you have a vast window for establishment. Start your lawn in early spring to ensure a deep root system is ready for the intense summer humidity.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chambers County's county score?
Chambers County, Texas has a composite county score of 32.1 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 Chambers County rank among counties in Texas?
Chambers County ranks #202 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 Chambers County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Chambers County is $3,290, with an effective tax rate of 1.13%. This earns Chambers County a tax score of 28.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Chambers County?
The median household income in Chambers County, Texas is $108,114 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Chambers County earns an income score of 97.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Chambers County, Texas a good place to live?
Chambers County scores 32.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #202 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Chambers 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 Chambers County with other counties side by side.

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