countyscore
52.9
County Score
Cost of Living 89.9Safety 79.6Schools 76.8

County Report Card

About Crosby County, Texas

Crosby County stays above the median

Crosby County holds a composite score of 52.9, keeping it slightly ahead of the national median of 50.0. This indicates a solid baseline of livability for its residents compared to the rest of the country.

Outperforming the Texas state average

Crosby's score of 52.9 is significantly higher than the Texas state average of 41.9. It stands out as a strong rural contender in the state, offering balanced benefits for local families.

Superior affordability and school quality

Housing is a major draw with a cost score of 89.9 and a median home value of just $75,500. Education is also a high point, with a school score of 76.8 reflecting strong local institutional support.

High tax rates and health gaps

The county struggles with a heavy tax burden, evidenced by an effective rate of 1.782% and a tax score of only 5.4. Health access is also a concern, with a score of 4.4 indicating a lack of local medical resources.

Great for families on a budget

Crosby County is a smart pick for young families looking for affordable homes and good schools. While taxes are high, the low cost of entry into the housing market makes it an accessible place to build a life.

Score breakdown

Tax5.4Cost89.9Safety79.6Health4.4Schools76.8Income19Risk76.3Water17.2Weather49.9
🏛5.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠89.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼19
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡79.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤4.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓76.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧17.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨16.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱26
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

Crosby County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Crosby County

via TaxByCounty

Crosby's rate ranks high nationally

Crosby County's effective tax rate of 1.782% significantly exceeds the national median of 1.29%, placing it well into the higher-taxed tier of American counties. The median tax of $1,345 on a $75,500 home, while modest in absolute terms, reflects an above-average rate burden.

Among Texas's highest-rate counties

At 1.782%, Crosby County's effective rate substantially exceeds Texas's state average of 1.276%, ranking it among the state's highest-tax counties. The median annual tax of $1,345 surpasses the state median of $2,193 on a lower home value, indicating an aggressive tax policy.

Crosby leads regional rates by far

Crosby County's 1.782% rate dramatically exceeds all neighbors in this group, doubling Cottle County's 1.152% and towering over Crockett's 0.333%. This makes Crosby's tax environment notably heavier than comparable West Texas counties.

Crosby residents pay $1,345 median tax

On a median home valued at $75,500, Crosby County homeowners pay approximately $1,345 in annual property taxes at the 1.782% rate. With a mortgage, annual escrow typically totals $1,897, adding significantly to housing costs.

Appeal your assessment in Crosby

Crosby County's high tax rate makes assessment accuracy critical—even a 10% reduction saves substantial money annually. Review your property assessment against recent comparable sales and file an appeal if you believe your valuation is inflated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Crosby County

via CostByCounty

Crosby offers solid affordability advantage

Crosby County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% is notably below the U.S. standard relative to the national median household income of $74,755. Renters here dedicate substantially less income to housing than typical American households, despite lower-than-average household earnings.

Better than Texas average affordability

At 14.6%, Crosby County's rent-to-income ratio improves upon Texas's state average of 18.1%, placing it in the more affordable tier of Texas counties. The median rent of $637 is 33.8% below the state average of $963, providing strong value for renters.

Affordable without Cottle's extreme isolation

Crosby's median rent of $637 is significantly cheaper than Cooke ($1,088) and Coryell ($1,120), though higher than Cottle ($323), making it a moderate affordability option. This positions Crosby as more accessible and economically viable than ultra-rural Cottle.

Lower income, but housing stays manageable

Crosby County's median household income of $52,197 is the lowest in this comparison, yet the median rent of $637 consumes just 14.6% of gross income. Owner costs of $577 per month represent about 13.3% of household income, creating balanced affordability for both renters and homeowners.

Crosby provides rural affordability access

Relocating to Crosby County works well for budget-conscious households seeking rural character, with median home values of $75,500 and rents among the lowest in the region. Verify local employment prospects carefully, as the lower household income reflects limited job diversity compared to larger counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Crosby County

via IncomeByCounty

Crosby County faces significant income gap

Crosby County's median household income of $52,197 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 30%, the largest gap in this group. This substantial shortfall reflects the economic challenges facing agricultural counties in the Texas Panhandle.

Texas's lower-income county tier

At $52,197, Crosby County ranks 19% below the Texas state median of $64,737, placing it among the state's lowest-income counties. Per capita income of $30,845 falls slightly below the state average of $33,197, indicating limited earning opportunities for individuals.

Struggling most among regional peers

Crosby County's $52,197 median income ranks lowest in this group, significantly trailing Cooke ($72,472), Coryell ($68,904), and even Cottle ($58,819). Agricultural dependence and population decline have constrained income growth relative to neighboring counties.

Low housing costs offset income constraints

At 14.6% of income, renters spend a relatively modest share on housing, and median home values of $75,500 are highly accessible. While housing affordability provides relief, the county's primary challenge remains boosting overall household earnings capacity.

Focus on income growth and stability

Crosby County households should prioritize career development and supplemental income opportunities to offset regional economic headwinds. Even modest income increases can meaningfully accelerate savings and investment potential; consider skill-building, side enterprises, or seeking higher-wage employment opportunities.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Crosby County

via CrimeByCounty

Crosby County Ranks High for Safety

Crosby County earns a 99.2 safety score, indicating a very low-risk area. Its total crime rate of 484.8 per 100,000 is roughly five times lower than the national average.

A Safe Choice for Texans

This county ranks well above the 96.8 Texas average safety score. Three reporting agencies work together to keep crime levels exceptionally low for the resident population.

Peaceful Living in the Panhandle

Crosby's crime rate of 484.8 per 100,000 is far superior to the state average of 2,052.5. It provides a peaceful alternative to higher-crime areas in West Texas.

Property Issues are Rare Occurrences

Property crime sits at 407.2 per 100,000, while violent crime is just 77.6. The vast majority of law enforcement activity involves minor property issues rather than violence.

Vigilance Preserves Local Safety

Community vigilance is the best defense against the county's low property crime rates. Simple home security habits help preserve this safe environment for everyone.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Crosby County

via HealthByCounty

Crosby County life expectancy critically low

At 69.3 years, Crosby County residents live 5.4 years shorter than the U.S. average of 74.7 years—the lowest in this analysis. More than 1 in 4 residents (27.4%) report poor or fair health, indicating severe, widespread health challenges across the county.

Lowest life expectancy in the state region

Crosby County's 69.3-year life expectancy falls nearly 5 years below Texas's state average of 74.3 years, ranking among the worst in the state. The 27.4% poor/fair health rate places Crosby among the sickest counties in Texas.

Health crisis worse than all neighbors

Crosby County's 69.3-year life expectancy is the lowest across all eight counties analyzed, nearly 2 years below Crockett County (71.2 years). The combination of lowest life expectancy and 27.4% poor/fair health rate marks an urgent public health emergency.

Limited providers, uninsured rate compounding crisis

Crosby County reports 39 primary care providers per 100,000 and 41 mental health providers per 100,000, providing some infrastructure despite severe health outcomes. The 22.0% uninsured rate leaves 1 in 5 residents without coverage, severely limiting their ability to manage chronic diseases and prevent early death.

Getting insured is urgent action

One in five Crosby County residents lack health coverage in a county facing a severe health crisis, with a 69.3-year life expectancy. If you're uninsured, contact a healthcare navigator immediately at Healthcare.gov or your county health office to explore Medicaid, Marketplace plans, or charity care options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Crosby County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse Options Across Seven Schools

Crosby County features seven public schools, including a mix of high schools, elementary schools, and multi-grade campuses. Three districts serve a total of 997 students, providing a surprising amount of variety for its size. The infrastructure includes two alternative schools to meet diverse learning needs.

Leading the Way in School Scores

Crosby County achieves an impressive composite school score of 60.1, the highest in this group and well above the Texas average of 55.3. This success is backed by a substantial $9,524 per-pupil expenditure and a strong 92.1% graduation rate. The county effectively leverages its resources to produce some of the best academic results in the region.

A Triple-District Rural Network

Ralls ISD is the largest district, managing four schools and 453 students, followed by Crosbyton CISD with 305 students. Lorenzo ISD also contributes, serving 239 students in a single PK-12 setting. Traditional public schools make up 100% of the educational options here, as there are no charter schools.

Exclusively Rural and Highly Personal

Every school in Crosby County is located in a rural setting, maintaining an average enrollment of just 166 students. The largest campus is Crosbyton CISD Pre K-12 with 295 students, while many other campuses remain even smaller. This creates a deeply personal educational experience where every student is a visible part of the community.

High-Performing Rural Living

Crosby County is a standout for families who want top-tier academic scores in a quiet, rural environment. With per-pupil spending that exceeds state averages, your children will benefit from well-funded, small-scale classrooms. Explore the area today to find a home within these high-scoring school boundaries.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Crosby County

via RiskByCounty

Crosby County maintains well-below-average risk

Crosby County's composite risk score of 23.73 falls in the "Very Low" category and remains substantially below the national average. This favorable standing reflects protection from most major natural disaster categories.

Safer than Texas average, though not the safest

Crosby County's score of 23.73 is 52% lower than Texas's state average of 49.00, placing it comfortably in the lower-risk tier. The county enjoys considerably better protection than many Texas regions.

Moderate risk within its peer group

Crosby County (23.73) ranks safer than Cooke County (73.31) and Coryell County (63.42), but slightly riskier than Cottle County (12.47). This middle-ground positioning reflects its West Texas location and climate.

Wildfire and tornado are primary concerns

Wildfire risk at 61.26 and tornado risk at 46.50 represent Crosby County's material hazards, though both remain manageable. Flood (5.47), earthquake (14.82), and hurricane (20.53) risks stay well below concerning thresholds.

Dual preparation for wildfire and storms

Crosby County residents should maintain defensible space against wildfire and ensure storm shelter access for tornado season. Standard homeowners insurance, supplemented by wildfire coverage, provides robust protection for most scenarios.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Crosby County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate High Plains Climate

Crosby County maintains a 61.4°F annual average, which is about 7 degrees warmer than the U.S. median. This high-plains climate offers a more temperate profile than southern Texas.

Cooler than State Norms

It is significantly cooler than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. Its location on the Caprock helps moderate the intense heat found elsewhere in the state.

Double the Rain of the West

Crosby receives 22.3 inches of rain, nearly double the annual moisture of Culberson County. It averages 2.9 inches of snow, similar to other counties in the South Plains.

Moderate Summers and Bracing Winters

While it still sees 95 days over 90°F, its July average of 81.0°F is milder than many Texas peers. Winters are crisp, averaging 42.5°F between December and February.

Insulate for Cold Winter Nights

Residents should prepare for 95 days of heat, though the nights cool off more than in the humid east. Ensure homes are insulated for the 40.8°F January lows.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Crosby County

via SoilByCounty

Strongly Alkaline Entisols of Crosby County

Crosby County is dominated by Entisols with a high average pH of 7.72, making it one of the more alkaline regions in Texas. This pH is much higher than the national median of 6.5, reflecting the mineral-heavy dust of the Llano Estacado. These 'young' soils are still actively being shaped by the wind and local climate.

Sandy Surface with a Clay Backbone

The soil contains 51.9% sand, 22.7% silt, and 21.9% clay, though the dominant texture is officially classified as clay in key areas. This combination creates a soil that is easy to manage on the surface but retains significant structural strength. The sand fraction helps prevent the heavy clay from becoming entirely unworkable when wet.

Steady Moisture in Moderate Soils

The organic matter content is 1.37%, slightly below the state average of 1.66% and the national 2.0% mark. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.132 in/in almost perfectly matches the state average of 0.133 in/in. This balance makes the soil reliable for the row crops that define the region's landscape.

Well-Drained but Slow to Infiltrate

The soil is classified as well-drained, yet it falls into hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration rates at depth. This creates a unique situation where the surface sheds water easily, but the deeper profile resists movement. Farmers must manage this carefully to prevent erosion and ensure deep moisture penetration.

Cooler Winters in Hardiness Zone 7b

In hardiness zone 7b, Crosby County supports a variety of hardy crops like winter wheat, cotton, and resilient fruit trees. The alkaline clay soils are a perfect match for native sunflowers and drought-resistant shrubs. It is a great environment to establish a landscape that can handle the High Plains' wind and sun.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Crosby County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty on the Caprock

Crosby County sits in Hardiness Zone 7b with a lawn difficulty score of 26.0, indicating a tough road for landscapers. This score is below the Texas state average, primarily due to the semi-arid climate of the High Plains.

Dry Air and Intense Sun

Annual precipitation is low at 22.3 inches, requiring significant supplemental irrigation to keep grass green. While the county sees 95 extreme heat days, the slightly cooler July average of 81°F offers some relief compared to southern counties.

Heavy Clay and High Alkalinity

Soil here is characterized by a clay texture and 51.9% sand, providing good drainage but posing compaction risks. The pH level of 7.72 is well above the ideal 7.0 limit, making nutrient uptake a major challenge for many lawn species.

Total Exposure to Severe Drought

Currently, 100% of Crosby County is under severe drought conditions, having faced 25 weeks of drought over the past year. Lawns require extreme water conservation measures, such as raising mower heights to shade the soil.

Plan for a Shorter Growing Season

With 5,184 growing degree days, you have a shorter window than East Texas, starting after the April 5 frost. Choose native shortgrasses like Blue Grama or Buffalograss that can handle the high 7.72 pH and severe drought.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crosby County's county score?
Crosby County, Texas has a composite county score of 52.9 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 Crosby County rank among counties in Texas?
Crosby County ranks #47 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 Crosby County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Crosby County is $1,345, with an effective tax rate of 1.78%. This earns Crosby County a tax score of 5.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Crosby County?
The median household income in Crosby County, Texas is $52,197 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Crosby County earns an income score of 19/100 on CountyScore.
Is Crosby County, Texas a good place to live?
Crosby County scores 52.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #47 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Crosby 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 Crosby 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.