countyscore
33.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 95.1Health 59.2Schools 50.2

County Report Card

About Comal County, Texas

High Wealth Meets Low Affordability

Comal County has a composite score of 33.8, which is below the national median of 50.0. High environmental risks and steep housing costs counteract the county's significant economic strengths.

Trailing the Texas Average Livability Score

The county’s score of 33.8 sits below the Texas average of 41.9. While it is a hub for growth, the index highlights the strain that high property values and environmental factors place on residents.

Exceptional Earnings and Strong Health

Comal County excels with an income score of 95.1 and a health score of 59.2. The median household income is a robust $99,015, supported by a healthy and active population.

Steep Housing Costs and High Risks

The county faces a very low cost score of 6.9 and a risk score of 7.3. With a median home value of $398,800, many may find the local real estate market difficult to enter.

Ideal for Established, Affluent Families

Comal County is best suited for high-income earners who want access to great healthcare and scenic Texas landscapes. It appeals to those who can afford premium housing in an area with some environmental volatility.

Score breakdown

Tax25.3Cost6.9Safety28.7Health59.2Schools50.2Income95.1Risk7.3Water23.6Weather26.3
🏛25.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠6.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡28.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤59.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡7.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧23.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤26.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱23.2
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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Deep Dives

Comal County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Comal County

via TaxByCounty

Comal County taxes below national median

Comal County's 1.210% effective tax rate sits comfortably below the national median of 1.41%, placing it in the lower-tax half of American counties. The median property tax of $4,827, while higher than the national median of $2,690 in absolute dollars, reflects Comal's strong real estate market—median home values of $398,800—rather than excessive tax rates.

Below-average tax rate for Texas

Comal County's 1.210% effective rate sits 0.066 percentage points below Texas's 1.276% state average, making it one of the state's more tax-friendly counties. The median tax of $4,827 exceeds the state median of $2,193 because Comal homes are worth significantly more, not because rates are higher.

Attractive Hill Country tax environment

Comal's 1.210% rate rivals nearby Colorado County's 1.091% and beats Collin County's 1.660%, positioning it as the sweet spot of the region. The $4,827 median tax reflects robust property values in this desirable Central Texas market without excessive tax burden.

Median home valued at $398,800

A typical Comal County home valued at $398,800 generates an annual property tax bill of $4,827 without a mortgage, or $5,622 with one included. This translates to roughly $402 monthly—significant in absolute terms, but reasonable given the quality and value of Hill Country properties.

Appraisals deserve scrutiny in hot market

Comal County's booming real estate market sometimes creates assessment lags, where homes are appraised above recent comparable sales as markets cool or stagnate. Homeowners should compare their assessments to recent arm's-length sales in their specific neighborhood and appeal if overassessed.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Comal County

via CostByCounty

Comal County: Affluent living with balance

Renters in Comal County spend 17.7% of income on housing—better than the national average of roughly 30%—with a median rent of $1,460 per month. The typical household earns $99,015, well above the national median of $74,755, making these higher costs sustainable and proportionally affordable.

Premium pricing, but manageable affordability

Comal County's $1,460 median rent is 52% above the Texas state average of $963, yet its 17.7% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the state average of 18.1%. This Hill Country destination attracts affluent residents whose above-average incomes absorb premium housing costs effectively.

Pricier than rural West Texas, cheaper than Collin

Comal County's $1,460 rent sits between Colorado County ($1,002) and Collin County ($1,792), reflecting its position as a desirable Hill Country region. For homebuyers, Comal's $398,800 median home value exceeds most rural comparables but remains $49,000 below Collin's priciest markets.

Premium costs offset by strong incomes

The median Comal County household earning $99,015 allocates $1,460 monthly for rent (17.7% of income) or $1,632 monthly to own a $398,800 home. Combined housing costs approach 38% of gross income, but the robust $99,015 median salary makes these premium Hill Country prices manageable.

Comal invites affluent Hill Country living

Relocating to Comal County positions you in a scenic, affluent region with $1,460 median rents and $398,800 median home values. If you're relocating with an income above $99,000, Comal's proportional affordability becomes clear—compare these costs to lower-income rural counties to see how your earning power matters.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Comal County

via IncomeByCounty

Comal County's income nears national peak

At $99,015, Comal County's median household income exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by 32%. This Hill Country gem attracts retirees, remote workers, and professionals seeking small-town living with strong earning potential.

Second-highest among Texas counties sampled

Comal County's $99,015 median ranks 53% above the Texas state average of $64,737, placing it among the state's most affluent counties. Per capita income of $51,472 towers above the state average of $33,197.

Only Collin County earns more

Comal County's $99,015 trails only Collin County ($117,588) in the eight-county sample, significantly exceeding all rural West Texas peers. This reflects its appeal as a prosperous Hill Country destination.

High home costs offset by strong incomes

Comal County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% remains manageable, but median home values of $398,800 are steep and require substantial household income. Strong local wages support homeownership among qualified buyers.

High earners should diversify aggressively

Comal County's above-average incomes unlock significant wealth-building potential through real estate, stock portfolios, and tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Consider professional financial planning to optimize investment returns and estate strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Comal County

via CrimeByCounty

Strong Safety Despite Population Growth

Comal County maintains a high safety score of 97.3, even as it experiences rapid growth. Its total crime rate of 1,713.7 per 100,000 remains comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5.

Better Than the State Average

Comal County’s safety score of 97.3 exceeds the Texas average of 96.8. Its total crime rate is also lower than the state average of 2,052.5, showing that public safety is keeping pace with development.

Regional Hub Safety Comparison

Comal’s rate of 1,713.7 is slightly higher than Comanche County (1,538.4) but remains much lower than Collin County’s 8,082.0. It strikes a balance between being a busy population center and maintaining a safe environment.

A Clear Breakdown of Local Risk

Violent crime in Comal County is 202.2 per 100,000, which is about 45% lower than the national average. Property crimes account for 1,511.5 per 100,000, representing the majority of police activity in the area.

Securing Your Property in Comal

As the area grows, residents should use technology like smart locks and doorbell cameras to protect their homes. Securing vehicles and removing valuables from sight can significantly reduce the property crimes that make up most local reports.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Comal County

via HealthByCounty

Comal County leads Texas in life expectancy

Comal County residents have a life expectancy of 78.3 years—nearly on par with the U.S. average of 79 years—making it one of Texas's top-performing counties. Just 16.3% of residents report poor or fair health, well below the national average of 18%, and only 13.3% lack health insurance. These strong metrics reflect economic prosperity and robust healthcare access throughout the county.

Significantly exceeds Texas health averages

At 78.3 years, Comal County's life expectancy is 4 years higher than Texas's state average of 74.3 years, placing it among the state's healthiest counties. The 13.3% uninsured rate is substantially lower than Texas's 19.8% average, and the 16.3% poor/fair health rate reflects strong overall population wellness. Economic strength and healthcare infrastructure in the Hill Country region create measurable health advantages.

Second-best health outcomes in the region

Only Collin County (81.3 years) exceeds Comal's life expectancy of 78.3 years; it significantly outperforms all other regional counties including Comanche (74.8) and Colorado (74.0). Comal's 13.3% uninsured rate is among the best regionally, exceeding only Collin's 10.6%. The county's proximity to San Antonio and Hill Country prosperity create distinct health advantages over rural panhandle regions.

Strong provider network supports residents

Comal County offers 59 primary care providers and 187 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—excellent access that rivals or exceeds many urban areas. Residents benefit from proximity to San Antonio's medical center, plus local hospitals and specialty networks throughout New Braunfels and surrounding areas. High insurance coverage rates (86.7%) mean most residents can afford to access these abundant resources.

Maintain and optimize your coverage

With 86.7% of Comal County already insured, residents should focus on ensuring their coverage meets their family's needs and includes preventive care access. Those self-employed, retired, or between jobs can explore marketplace options at healthcare.gov to maintain continuous protection. Review annual coverage options during open enrollment to lock in affordable rates and comprehensive benefits.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Comal County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rapidly Growing District with Expansive Schools

Comal County serves 28,362 students through 42 public schools, ranging from New Braunfels to the hill country. The landscape includes 21 elementary schools and 11 high schools, with a significant presence of charter and alternative options. This system is designed to handle the fast-paced growth of one of Texas's most popular regions.

Top-Tier Graduation Rates and High Efficiency

Comal County achieves an excellent 96.4% graduation rate, far exceeding the national average of 87.0%. Despite spending only $5,599 per pupil—well below the state average of $7,498—the county maintains a competitive school score of 53.9. This indicates a highly effective use of resources to produce strong student outcomes.

Major Districts Define the Academic Landscape

Comal ISD is the dominant force with 35 schools and 28,511 students, followed by New Braunfels ISD with over 9,700 students. The county also features four charter schools, including the Trinity Charter School network. High schools here are large, with Canyon High and Smithson Valley High both serving over 2,300 students.

A Balance of City Life and Rural Charm

The county's schools are evenly split between 22 rural and 20 city locations, with an average school size of 692 students. While many elementary schools are smaller, the large high schools serve as major community hubs for sports and academics. This mix provides a classic Texas educational experience in a rapidly modernizing area.

Invest in a Home Near Comal's Best Schools

With a 96% graduation rate, Comal County is a premier destination for families prioritizing education in their home search. Homes in the Smithson Valley or New Braunfels areas are particularly popular for their proximity to high-performing campuses. Start your journey in a county where school quality and community growth go hand-in-hand.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Comal County

via RiskByCounty

Comal County Faces High Risk

Comal County scores 92.68, earning a Relatively Moderate rating and significantly exceeding the national average for disaster risk. The Hill Country location exposes residents to multiple concurrent hazards, making it one of the riskier counties nationwide.

Among Texas's Highest-Risk Counties

Comal County's score of 92.68 nearly doubles the Texas state average of 49.00, placing it in the upper risk tier statewide. Only Collin County (98.86) exceeds Comal's exposure in this comparison group, reflecting the Hill Country's inherent vulnerability.

Significantly Riskier Than Most Peers

Comal County (92.68) approaches Collin County (98.86) in risk magnitude and vastly exceeds West Texas neighbors like Coke (3.66) and Concho (4.48). It represents the second-most hazardous location in this eight-county sample.

Flood, Tornado, and Wildfire Converge

Flood risk (96.56), tornado risk (93.23), and wildfire risk (89.31) are all exceptionally high in Comal County, each scoring near or above 89 points. This convergence of three major threats makes it among the most multi-hazard-exposed counties statewide.

Triple-Layer Insurance Essential

Comal County residents must secure separate flood insurance immediately—the 96.56 flood risk score demands it—alongside comprehensive wind and wildfire coverage in their homeowners policy. Review your policy annually before flood and fire seasons, and maintain at least 80% replacement-cost coverage to avoid penalties.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Comal County

via WeatherByCounty

The warmth of the Hill Country

Comal County averages 67.6°F, placing it well above the national median temperature. Located at the edge of the Hill Country, it balances this heat with 35.0 inches of annual rain.

Slightly warmer than state average

The county’s average temperature of 67.6°F exceeds the Texas average of 65.5°F. Its precipitation is also slightly higher than the state average, making it greener than counties to the west.

Middle ground in Central Texas

Comal is warmer and wetter than Concho County, which sits further inland and averages only 64.9°F. However, it is slightly cooler than the deep coastal plains found in Colorado County.

Mild winters and 110 heat days

July averages 83.1°F, part of a long warm season featuring 110 days above 90°F. Winters are very mild with a January average of 49.8°F and almost no measurable snow at 0.1 inches.

Gear up for outdoor heat

Outdoor activities are best planned for mornings to avoid the 110 days of extreme heat. With very little snow, winter gear is rarely needed, but sun protection is a year-round essential.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Comal County

via SoilByCounty

The Undiscovered Soils of Comal

Current soil taxonomic data and pH levels are not available for Comal County in this dataset. Local gardeners often find rocky, limestone-based soils typical of the Hill Country.

Local Variations in Texture

While specific sand, silt, and clay percentages are not recorded here, regional patterns suggest a mix of clay loams. These soils usually require careful management to ensure proper drainage and aeration.

Estimating Growth Potential

With organic matter and water capacity data missing, local testing is highly recommended. Many neighbors in the Hill Country struggle with thin soil layers over solid rock.

Managing Hill Country Water

Hydrologic data is unavailable for this specific area. However, the sloping terrain of Comal County generally dictates how water moves across the landscape more than soil type alone.

Growing in Hardiness Zone 9a

The mild winters of zone 9a support a massive variety of native Texas plants and perennials. Grab a soil test kit and start your garden journey in the beautiful Hill Country today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Comal County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Conditions in the Hill Country

Comal County presents a difficult lawn environment with a score of 23.2, which is significantly lower than the state average of 31.7. In Zone 9a, the combination of rocky terrain and extreme weather patterns makes maintaining a traditional lawn a true labor of love.

High Evaporation and Long Summers

The county receives 35.0 inches of rain annually, but this moisture is often stripped away by 110 extreme heat days. With 6,768 growing degree days, the warm season is exceptionally long, requiring vigilant management from March through November.

Limited Soil Data in Rocky Terrain

While specific county-wide soil mineral data is limited, local growers typically encounter thin layers of topsoil over limestone. Testing your specific site is crucial to determine if amendments are needed to overcome the region's typically alkaline profile.

A Year of Constant Drought

Comal County has faced a staggering 53 weeks of drought over the past year, with 100% of the area currently in severe drought. Water conservation isn't just a tip here; it is a necessity, often involving strict municipal restrictions and a focus on xeriscaping.

Beat the Heat with Hardy Varieties

Wait until the last frost on March 8th to begin planting, focusing on extremely drought-hardy species like Zoysia or native Habiturf. These varieties have the best chance of surviving the intense sun before the first frost arrives on December 1st.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Comal County's county score?
Comal County, Texas has a composite county score of 33.9 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 Comal County rank among counties in Texas?
Comal County ranks #186 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 Comal County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Comal County is $4,827, with an effective tax rate of 1.21%. This earns Comal County a tax score of 25.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Comal County?
The median household income in Comal County, Texas is $99,015 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Comal County earns an income score of 95.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Comal County, Texas a good place to live?
Comal County scores 33.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #186 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Comal 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 Comal County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.