countyscore
39.3
County Score
Income & Jobs 63.2Safety 52.7Water Quality 45.9

County Report Card

About Colorado County, Texas

Moderate Performance on the National Stage

Colorado County holds a composite score of 39.3, trailing the national median of 50.0. The score reflects a mix of respectable income levels offset by lower rankings in health and education.

Slightly Below the Texas State Average

The county's score of 39.3 is just below the Texas state average of 41.9. It performs middle-of-the-pack for the state, offering moderate affordability and safety.

Stable Incomes and Favorable Tax Rates

A strength for the county is its income score of 63.2, with a median household income of $68,554. Additionally, the effective tax rate of 1.091% provides a tax score of 31.8, which is better than many neighboring counties.

Lagging in Health and Schooling

The county struggles with a health score of 21.9 and a school score of 35.7. Improving these local systems would significantly boost the overall livability for residents.

A Solid Choice for Working Adults

Colorado County suits mid-career professionals looking for a stable income and reasonable tax burden. It is best for those who do not prioritize top-tier school rankings in their immediate relocation decisions.

2040608010031.843.552.721.935.763.237.845.920.9Tax31.8Cost43.5Safety52.7Health21.9Schools35.7Income63.2Risk37.8Water45.9Weather20.939.3/100
This county
National avg
1 above average5 below average

Colorado County DNA

Foverall

How Colorado County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Colorado County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Weather & Climate (20.9/100), though Income (63.2/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
31.8-20.2
Cost
43.5
Safety
52.7
Health
21.9-28.1
Schools
35.7-18.299999999999997
Income
63.2+12.200000000000003
Risk
37.8-9.200000000000003
Water
45.9-12.100000000000001
Weather
20.9-35.1
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Colorado County?

Many homeowners in Colorado County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$194,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,002/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$194,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$40,080/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $68,554/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

28.9

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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Counties with similar scores

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Trumbull County
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Marshall County
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Nearby counties

Austin County
Texas
39.6
Wharton County
Texas
27
Lavaca County
Texas
55.2
Fayette County
Texas
47.3
Waller County
Texas
33.6
Washington County
Texas
37.9
Fort Bend County
Texas
27.1
Jackson County
Texas
44.4

Deep Dives

Colorado County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Colorado County

via TaxByCounty

Colorado County offers lowest tax burden

At 1.091%, Colorado County's effective tax rate ranks among the lowest in the entire nation, well below the national median of 1.41%. The median property tax of $2,117 remains below the national median of $2,690, despite Colorado having higher property values than its rural neighbors.

Tax-friendly standout in Texas

Colorado County's 1.091% effective rate is 0.185 percentage points below Texas's 1.276% state average, placing it among the state's most tax-favorable counties. The median tax of $2,117 runs $76 below the state median, offering meaningful savings statewide.

Clear winner in regional tax comparison

Colorado County's 1.091% rate is substantially lower than all nearby counties: Coke at 1.187%, Coleman at 1.368%, and Comal at 1.210%. With the lowest median home value and one of the lowest tax rates in the region, Colorado offers exceptional value for property owners.

Median home valued at $194,000

A typical Colorado County home valued at $194,000 generates an annual property tax bill of $2,117 without a mortgage, or $2,343 with one included. At roughly $176 monthly, property taxes here are among Texas's lightest burdens, even accounting for homestead mortgage taxes.

Low rates don't eliminate appeal value

Even in Colorado County's favorable tax environment, homeowners should verify their assessments against comparable sales, as errors occur anywhere. An appeal cost little to pursue and could yield refunds if your appraisal proves excessive relative to your neighborhood's actual market values.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Colorado County

via CostByCounty

Colorado County balances cost and income well

Renters in Colorado County spend 17.5% of income on housing—well below the national average of roughly 30%—with a median rent of $1,002 per month. The typical household earns $68,554, just below the national median of $74,755, yet maintains strong affordability relative to housing costs.

Slightly above Texas average, still affordable

Colorado County's 17.5% rent-to-income ratio edges slightly below the Texas state average of 18.1%, maintaining competitive affordability across the state. At $1,002 monthly, rent is only 4% above the state median of $963, positioning Colorado as a reasonably priced option among Texas counties.

Moderate rents bridging rural and metro

Colorado County's $1,002 rent sits between rural West Texas counties like Coke ($687) and Concho ($919), and the pricier Comal County ($1,460). It represents a middle ground for those seeking more amenities than rural areas offer without the premium pricing of major metro regions like Collin County.

Balanced housing costs for moderate incomes

The median Colorado County household earning $68,554 allocates $1,002 monthly for rent (17.5% of income) or $767 monthly to own a home valued at $194,000. Combined housing costs consume roughly 34% of gross income, a healthy proportion that leaves room for other expenses.

Colorado offers balanced Texas living

If you're considering relocation to Colorado County, expect moderate rents of $1,002 and median home values around $194,000—a sweet spot between rural affordability and metro amenities. Compare these figures to nearby counties and statewide averages to gauge whether Colorado's positioning matches your budget and lifestyle needs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Colorado County

via IncomeByCounty

Colorado County approaches national average

Colorado County's median household income of $68,554 falls 8% short of the national median of $74,755. This southeast Texas county benefits from proximity to growing metros and agricultural heritage.

Slightly above Texas state median

At $68,554, Colorado County exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737, placing it in the upper-middle tier of state counties. Per capita income of $37,885 also tops the state average of $33,197.

Stronger than most rural West Texas

Colorado County's $68,554 median outearns six of the seven comparison counties, trailing only Comal ($99,015) and Collin ($117,588). It demonstrates the income advantage of southeast Texas's location and economy.

Housing takes moderate share of income

At 17.5%, Colorado County's rent-to-income ratio remains comfortable, allowing households flexibility in budgets. Median home values of $194,000 are within reach for many local earners with reasonable down payments.

Above-average income fuels investing

Colorado County households earning above-state-average wages can accelerate wealth building through homeownership, retirement accounts, and diversified investments. Set clear financial goals and review progress quarterly.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Colorado County

via CrimeByCounty

Colorado County Maintains High Safety Marks

Colorado County earns a strong safety score of 98.3, outperforming national norms. Its total crime rate of 1,064.1 per 100,000 is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

Safer Than the Texas Average

The county’s safety score of 98.3 is higher than the Texas state average of 96.8. This reflects a total crime rate that is nearly 1,000 points lower than the state's average of 2,052.5 per 100,000.

Competitive Safety Among Neighbors

Colorado County’s rate of 1,064.1 is very similar to Coke County’s 1,059.0, showing consistent safety across these rural regions. It is significantly more secure than Comal County, which sees nearly 700 more crimes per 100,000.

Low Violence, Manageable Property Crime

Violent crime remains low at 145.8 per 100,000, which is well under the national average of 369.8. Property crime constitutes 918.3 of the total rate, indicating that most local law enforcement efforts focus on theft and burglary.

Smart Steps for Property Protection

With property crime as the primary local concern, residents should focus on securing high-value items and garages. Simple deterrents like motion sensors or gravel driveways can help maintain the county's excellent safety standing.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Colorado County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Rural and Town Infrastructure

Colorado County supports 3,600 students across 14 public schools, including six elementary and five high schools. These schools are distributed across three districts, providing a mix of rural and town-based education. The infrastructure includes two alternative schools to meet diverse learning needs.

Analyzing Graduation Rates and Local Investment

The county maintains a graduation rate of 86.2%, which sits just below the national average of 87.0%. Local investment is consistent, with per-pupil spending of $7,136 and a composite school score of 51.8. While slightly below state averages, the county provides a steady educational environment for its residents.

Columbus and Rice Districts Lead the Way

Columbus ISD is the largest district by enrollment, serving 1,610 students, while Rice CISD manages seven schools for ,1286 students. Weimar ISD also contributes to the county's landscape with 704 students across three campuses. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county boundaries.

Mixing Small Rural Schools with Town Centers

Education here is split between eight rural schools and six town-based campuses, with an average size of 257 students. Columbus Elementary is the largest campus with 760 students, while many other schools offer much smaller, intimate settings. This mix allows families to choose between centralized town schooling or a more secluded rural experience.

Settle Near Top Colorado County Schools

Whether you prefer the town of Columbus or the open spaces of the Rice CISD area, school quality is a major factor in local home buying. The county offers a variety of campus sizes and settings to fit different family needs. Explore available homes near these community-focused districts to find your perfect fit.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Colorado County

via RiskByCounty

Colorado County: Moderate Risk Profile

Colorado County scores 62.25, earning a Relatively Low rating and exceeding the national average moderately. The county's risk stems primarily from hurricane and tornado exposure in the South Texas coastal corridor.

Above Texas Average, Below Collin County

At 62.25, Colorado County exceeds the Texas state average of 49.00 by roughly 27%, reflecting significant but manageable natural hazard exposure. It ranks in the upper-middle tier statewide, between low-risk West Texas and the high-risk Dallas metro area.

Higher Risk Than Panhandle Counties

Colorado County (62.25) faces notably higher risk than Coke (3.66), Coleman (20.61), and Collingsworth (27.42) counties farther west. It approaches Comanche County (51.02) and sits below the elevated risks of Collin (98.86) and Comal (92.68).

Hurricane and Tornado Dominate

Hurricane risk (87.98) is Colorado County's most acute hazard, making it one of the top exposures in the state for coastal weather impacts. Tornado risk (71.09) ranks second, and combined these two weather threats create significant seasonal exposure.

Hurricane and Wind Coverage Critical

Colorado County residents near the coast or in flood-prone areas must carry separate flood insurance—their 51.05 flood risk score merits dedicated protection. Ensure your homeowners policy covers hurricane and wind damage, and consider higher coverage limits for both named-storm and tornado-related losses.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Colorado County

via WaterByCounty

Below Average Grade Despite Low Violations

Colorado County receives a 'D' grade for drinking water compliance with three health violations reported. Even with the poor grade, its violation rate of 22.5 per 100,000 residents is well below the Texas state average of 581.9.

River Health Assessments Not Yet Reported

Federal §303(d) assessments have not yet covered the water bodies in Colorado County. Consequently, there is no official data regarding impaired percentages or top pollutant causes for this area.

Focused Monitoring Along Local Waterways

A small network of 9 monitoring sites has generated ,1966 measurements over the last five years. Most measurements track physical parameters, major inorganics, and nutrient levels to maintain water safety.

Colorado River Running Below Normal Levels

The Colorado River at Columbus reports a current discharge of 2,210 cfs, which is 77% of its long-term mean. While flowing steadily, it remains below the typical 2,889 cfs expected for this reach of the river.

Monitor Trends in Streamflow and Compliance

Though the violation rate is low, the 'D' grade suggests residents should verify their water system's specific issues. Declining streamflow can also increase the concentration of agricultural runoff, so seasonal water testing is recommended.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Colorado County

via WeatherByCounty

Tropical heat and heavy rain

Colorado County is much warmer than the national median, averaging a balmy 68.8°F. With 45.0 inches of annual precipitation, it is one of the more humid and rain-heavy regions in the country.

Surpassing the Texas heat average

The county's 68.8°F annual average is over three degrees warmer than the Texas state benchmark. It also receives 13 inches more rain than the state average, fueling its lush, coastal-plain landscape.

Hotter than its northern peers

Colorado County is significantly warmer than Comanche or Coleman counties to the northwest. It averages roughly 20 more extreme heat days than its neighbors closer to the state's center.

A year without snow

Summer dominates the calendar with a staggering 132 days of temperatures over 90°F. Snow is nonexistent with a 0.0-inch average, and even January remains mild with an average of 51.3°F.

Prioritize cooling and rain drainage

Extreme heat for over a third of the year makes high-performance HVAC systems non-negotiable. Homeowners should also focus on flood prevention and moisture control to manage the 45 inches of annual rain.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Colorado County

via SoilByCounty

The Goldilocks pH of Colorado County

Colorado County hits the national median pH perfectly at 6.50, offering a neutral environment for most plants. This balance makes it unique among Texas counties, which often lean heavily alkaline.

Sandy Soils of the Coastal Plains

The soil is 57.7% sand, the highest in this group, balanced by 22.8% silt and 19.5% clay. This mixture provides excellent workability and aeration for root systems.

Moderate Fertility and Water Capacity

Organic matter content stands at 1.37%, which is slightly below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is 0.132 in/in, aligning almost perfectly with the Texas benchmark.

Slow Infiltration in Group D

Though specific drainage classes aren't mapped, the county falls into hydrologic group D. This suggests the soil can become easily saturated, leading to significant runoff during heavy Gulf Coast rains.

Subtropical Success in Zone 9a

The warm 9a zone is perfect for citrus, tomatoes, and long-season crops. Use your neutral pH to your advantage and start a diverse backyard orchard or vegetable patch.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Colorado County

via LawnByCounty

Thriving in the Coastal Plains

Colorado County enjoys a lawn difficulty score of 39.7, outperforming the Texas state average of 31.7. Located in Zone 9a, the county benefits from a nearly year-round growing cycle, though extreme summer heat remains a primary maintenance factor.

Abundant Rain and Significant Heat

Lawns receive a generous 45.0 inches of annual precipitation, which is well within the ideal range for lush growth. However, a staggering 132 extreme heat days—far exceeding the state average of 105—demands heat-tolerant species that can handle 7,171 growing degree days.

Ideal pH for Nutrient Absorption

The county boasts a soil pH of 6.50, sitting perfectly within the 6.0-7.0 ideal range for plant health. The soil is quite sandy at 57.7%, meaning that while nutrients are easily absorbed, the ground requires consistent organic matter additions to hold moisture.

Severe Drought Risks in the South

Despite high rainfall, the county is currently 100% covered by severe drought (D2+), with 39 weeks of drought over the past year. In these conditions, utilizing rain barrels and drip irrigation for flower beds can help save municipal water for the lawn.

Maximum Growth in a Long Season

The frost-free window begins early on March 9th and extends until late November, offering a massive period for lawn establishment. St. Augustine and Bermuda grass are the local favorites, flourishing in the humid, warm environment of the Texas coastal interior.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Colorado County's county score?
Colorado County, Texas has a composite county score of 39.3 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 Colorado County rank among counties in Texas?
Colorado County ranks #150 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 Colorado County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Colorado County is $2,117, with an effective tax rate of 1.09%. This earns Colorado County a tax score of 31.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Colorado County?
The median household income in Colorado County, Texas is $68,554 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Colorado County earns an income score of 63.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Colorado County, Texas a good place to live?
Colorado County scores 39.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #150 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Colorado 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 Colorado 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.