countyscore
26.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 75.8Water Quality 71.8Lawn Care 56.7

County Report Card

About Dallas County, Texas

Dallas County trails national livability medians

Dallas County earns a composite score of 26.2, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. While it is a major economic hub, its overall livability rank is dampened by high costs and environmental risks.

Falling behind the Texas average score

The county's score of 26.2 significantly lags behind the Texas state average of 41.9. This puts Dallas County in the lower tier of Texas counties for overall quality of life according to the composite index.

Strong incomes and reliable water access

Dallas County excels in economic opportunity with an income score of 75.8 and a median household income of $74,149. It also maintains a robust water score of 71.8, ensuring reliable utility infrastructure for its urban population.

Struggling with high taxes and environmental risk

The county faces major hurdles with a risk score of 0.3 and a tax score of 7.6. Residents deal with an effective tax rate of 1.680% and a cost score of 8.3, reflecting the high price of urban living.

Best for career-focused urban professionals

Dallas County suits high-earning individuals who prioritize career growth and city amenities over low taxes. Families may find the cost of $277,900 median homes and low school scores of 19.9 to be significant trade-offs.

Score breakdown

Tax7.6Cost8.3Safety41.8Health34.9Schools19.9Income75.8Risk0.3Water71.8Weather29.1
🏛7.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠8.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼75.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡41.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤34.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓19.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡0.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧71.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤29.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨42.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱56.7
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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Collin County
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Rockwall County
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40.6
Denton County
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Ellis County
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Johnson County
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Deep Dives

Dallas County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Dallas County

via TaxByCounty

Dallas taxes run 73% above national average

At 1.68%, Dallas County's effective tax rate significantly outpaces the national median of 0.87%, placing it in the top 25% of U.S. counties by tax burden. The typical Dallas homeowner pays $4,668 annually—74% more than the national median of $2,690—despite homes being similarly valued.

Highest-taxing county in Texas

Dallas County ranks first among all 254 Texas counties by effective tax rate at 1.68%, well above the state average of 1.28%. Homeowners here pay $4,668 in median property taxes versus just $2,193 statewide.

Suburbs split: Denton charges more

Neighboring Denton County at 1.72% effective rate is slightly higher, while smaller surrounding counties like Delta (0.98%) and DeWitt (0.86%) tax property owners at roughly half Dallas's rate. This variation reflects different local school funding needs and municipal priorities across the Dallas-Fort Worth region.

Median home costs $4,668 yearly

A home worth $277,900—Dallas County's median—generates $4,668 in annual property taxes at the 1.68% rate. With mortgage interest deduction considerations, the total tax bill climbs to $5,448 when combined with typical county assessments.

Many Dallas homeowners are overassessed

Studies show that homeowners in high-tax urban counties like Dallas are overassessed at higher rates than their rural counterparts. If your home's assessed value seems inflated, filing a formal property tax appeal with the Dallas Central Appraisal District could reduce your annual bill significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Dallas County

via CostByCounty

Dallas rents climb above national norms

Dallas County renters spend 23.8% of their income on rent, outpacing the nation's typical burden by roughly 6 percentage points. With a median household income of $74,149—nearly matching the national median of $74,755—residents here face steeper housing costs than most Americans.

Texas's affordability challenge

Dallas County's rent-to-income ratio of 23.8% ranks as one of Texas's least affordable, significantly above the state average of 18.1%. The county's median rent of $1,469 per month far exceeds Texas's state median of $963, reflecting Dallas's status as a major job center.

Dallas vs. the DFW corridor

Dallas County residents pay roughly 50% more in monthly rent ($1,469) than those in neighboring Denton and Collin County areas when considering the broader metro landscape. However, Denton County—the region's wealthiest county with a $108,185 median income—stretches affordability further despite even higher rents of $1,642.

Where Dallas incomes go

The typical Dallas household spends $1,469 on rent or $1,475 on mortgage costs, consuming nearly a quarter of the $74,149 median income. Homeownership and renting demand roughly equal monthly payments here, making Dallas competitive in choice but expensive in absolute dollars.

Considering Dallas? Budget wisely

If you're relocating to Dallas, expect to allocate nearly 24% of your income to housing—higher than most U.S. metros. Compare this ratio to smaller Texas counties where affordability runs 3-7 percentage points lower, or weigh Dallas's job market premium against rural alternatives.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Dallas County

via IncomeByCounty

Dallas barely trails the nation

Dallas County's median household income of $74,149 sits just 0.8% below the national median of $74,755, placing it squarely in the middle of American prosperity. This near-parity masks significant internal diversity—the county includes both wealthy suburbs and working-class neighborhoods.

Outearning most Texas counties

At $74,149, Dallas County earns 14.4% more than the Texas state average of $64,737, ranking it in the upper tier of Texas counties. The county's $41,272 per capita income also exceeds the state average of $33,197 by 24.3%.

Dallas leads its regional peers

Dallas County significantly outpaces neighboring counties like Denton ($108,185, which leads the region), but substantially exceeds rural neighbors like Kaufman and Ellis. Its income advantage reflects the urban concentration of corporate headquarters, healthcare, and professional services across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Rent consumes nearly a quarter

With a rent-to-income ratio of 23.8%, Dallas County households spend nearly a quarter of their income on housing, slightly above the healthy 20% threshold. A median home value of $277,900 remains accessible to dual-income households earning the county median, though single-earner families face affordability pressures.

Build wealth beyond the paycheck

Dallas County's above-average income provides a foundation for building long-term wealth through homeownership, retirement savings, and diversified investments. Starting an emergency fund covering 3–6 months of expenses and maximizing retirement contributions early can compound significantly over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Dallas County

via CrimeByCounty

Dallas County Outperforms National Safety Trends

Dallas County reports a total crime rate of 1,314.8 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a high safety score of 97.9 out of 100. Residents benefit from a safety environment that is considerably more secure than many other major urban hubs.

A Leader in Texas Safety Scores

With a safety score of 97.9, Dallas County exceeds the Texas state average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 1,314.8 also sits well below the statewide average of 2,052.5 per 100,000 people. This data indicates that Dallas remains a safe anchor compared to other metropolitan areas across the state.

Lower Crime Rates Than Regional Peers

Dallas County maintains a total crime rate of 1,314.8, which is much lower than the 4,397.7 rate found in neighboring Denton County. While 43 different agencies report data here, the consolidated safety profile remains strong. This gap highlights Dallas as a relatively secure enclave within the bustling North Texas corridor.

Property Crimes Outpace Violent Incidents

The local crime landscape is dominated by property crimes, which occur at a rate of 1,174.1 per 100,000 residents. Violent crime is much rarer, with only 140.7 incidents per 100,000 people, roughly half the Texas average. These figures mean most residents are far more likely to deal with theft than physical harm.

Securing Your Dallas Home

Since property crime accounts for the vast majority of local incidents, home security is a smart investment. Consider installing smart cameras or improved lighting to deter potential opportunistic theft. Staying informed through the county's 43 reporting agencies helps maintain this high level of community safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Dallas County

via HealthByCounty

Dallas lives longer than most Americans

At 76.7 years, Dallas County residents live 2.4 years longer than the U.S. average of 74.3 years—a meaningful edge in life expectancy. Yet one in five residents report poor or fair health, suggesting that years gained don't guarantee healthy years lived.

Outpacing Texas on both counts

Dallas County's 76.7-year life expectancy significantly exceeds Texas's 74.3-year average, placing it among the state's healthier counties. The 20.8% poor/fair health rate trails the state average, reflecting better overall health outcomes across the county.

Urban health advantage in North Texas

Dallas County's 76.7-year life expectancy and 220 mental health providers per 100,000 residents far outpace rural neighbors like Denton (80.7 years) and Dawson (70.7 years). The county's robust provider network—including 72 primary care providers per 100,000—reflects the infrastructure of a major metro area.

One in four Dallas residents uninsured

Dallas County's 23.6% uninsured rate exceeds the Texas average of 19.8%, meaning nearly 1.2 million adults lack health coverage despite the county's economic size. While primary care access is solid at 72 providers per 100,000, the uninsured often delay care or use emergency rooms instead.

Coverage matters for Dallas health

If you're among Dallas County's 23.6% uninsured residents, the ACA marketplace and Medicaid options offer pathways to affordable coverage. Check healthcare.gov or contact 211 Texas to explore plans that fit your income and health needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Dallas County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive Urban Education Network

Dallas County operates a vast network of 737 public schools serving 461,669 students across 44 distinct districts. The infrastructure includes 438 elementary schools and 127 high schools, making it one of the largest educational hubs in the state.

Evaluating Performance and Investment

The county's 83.5% graduation rate trails both the Texas average of 91.6% and the national benchmark of 87%. With a per-pupil expenditure of $6,296, the county invests less than the $7,498 state average and significantly less than the $13,000 national average.

Dallas ISD Leads the Way

Dallas ISD dominates the landscape with 240 schools and 141,169 students, while Garland ISD follows with 52,767 students. Charter schools play a major role here, with 129 campuses representing 17.5% of all public schools in the county.

Urban Centers and High-Enrollment Campuses

Education here is primarily an urban experience, with 420 schools in city settings and 296 in suburbs. High schools like Duncanville and Skyline are massive, with enrollments exceeding 4,100 students each.

Finding Your Home in Dallas County

Families looking for diverse educational options, from traditional districts to large-scale charter networks, will find plenty of choices here. Researching school proximity is a vital step for homebuyers navigating this expansive urban market.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Dallas County

via RiskByCounty

Dallas faces exceptionally high disaster risk

Dallas County's composite risk score of 99.65 places it in the "Very High" category, far exceeding the national average. This means residents here contend with significantly elevated exposure to multiple natural hazards compared to most U.S. counties.

Among Texas's most at-risk counties

With a score of 99.65, Dallas County ranks among the highest-risk counties in Texas, where the state average is 49.00. This dual exposure to urban density and natural hazard vulnerability creates compounded challenges for the region.

Dallas outpaces nearby counties in risk

Denton County (96.91) faces comparable tornado and flood threats, while surrounding rural counties like Kaufman and Ellis experience notably lower composite scores. Dallas's urban footprint amplifies the impact of hazards that neighboring areas endure at lower intensity.

Tornadoes and flooding dominate here

Dallas faces a tornado risk of 99.84 and flood risk of 99.55, the two hazards most likely to affect residents directly. Wildfire (80.28) and earthquake risk (91.28) add additional layers of concern, requiring year-round preparedness.

Comprehensive coverage is essential

Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood or earthquake damage—critical gaps in Dallas given scores of 99.55 and 91.28 respectively. Residents should prioritize standalone flood insurance and consider earthquake coverage; tornado preparedness requires a reinforced safe room or access to community shelters.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Dallas County

via WeatherByCounty

A Hot Urban Core

Dallas County averages 66.8°F annually, making it one of the warmer urban centers in the United States. It sits roughly 12 degrees above the national median temperature.

Warmer than the Texas Average

At 66.8°F, Dallas is warmer than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. Its urban heat island effect contributes to these higher regional temperatures.

The Wettest County in the Group

It is the wettest county in this group, receiving 38.8 inches of rain annually. This is more than triple the precipitation of Culberson or Crane counties.

Intense Summer Heat and Humidity

Summer is dominated by 105 days of extreme heat and a July average of 85.7°F. Winters are mild with only 1.6 inches of snow and a December-February average of 48.8°F.

Invest in High-Efficiency Cooling

High-efficiency air conditioning is non-negotiable for the 105 days of triple-digit potential. Rain gutters and drainage systems must be maintained to handle the heavy 38.8-inch annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Dallas County

via SoilByCounty

A balanced and neutral soil foundation

Dallas County features Entisols with an average pH of 6.57, which sits nearly perfectly on the national median of 6.5 and is lower than the Texas average of 7.09. These young soils offer a neutral base that supports a wide range of plant life without the heavy alkalinity found in other parts of the state.

Even textures drive consistent workability

The soil composition is remarkably balanced with 30.0% sand, 26.7% silt, and 30.4% clay. This mix creates a variable texture that provides a middle ground between the easy drainage of sand and the nutrient-holding power of clay.

Moderate organic matter and water capacity

Organic matter stands at 1.53%, trailing both the state average of 1.66% and the national average of 2.0%. With an available water capacity of 0.131 in/in, the soil holds moisture at levels very close to the Texas benchmark of 0.133 in/in.

Excellent drainage for urban and rural use

The land is classified as well drained and falls into hydrologic group A, which indicates a high rate of water transmission. This makes the soil ideal for gardening and construction as it resists pooling and saturated roots.

A gardener's paradise in Zone 8b

Situated in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, Dallas County soils are perfect for heat-tolerant favorites like okra, peppers, and native perennials. Grab a shovel and start planting, as these neutral soils require fewer amendments than neighboring counties.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Dallas County

via LawnByCounty

A Fair Start for Dallas Lawns

Dallas County earns a lawn difficulty score of 56.7, making it easier to maintain a yard here than the national average of 50.0. In hardiness zone 8b, local gardeners find conditions significantly more favorable than the Texas state average of 31.7. This relatively high score suggests that with the right care, a lush lawn is well within reach for most residents.

Ideal Rainfall Meets Intense Heat

The county receives 38.8 inches of rain annually, which sits perfectly within the ideal range of 30 to 50 inches for healthy grass. However, 105 extreme heat days each year demand a strategic watering schedule to prevent scorched blades. With 6,660 growing degree days, grass grows vigorously during the long warm season.

Balanced Soil for Deep Roots

Local soil features a balanced 30.4% clay and 30.0% sand mix that is categorized as well-drained. The pH level of 6.57 is nearly perfect, falling squarely within the 6.0 to 7.0 range preferred by most turfgrasses. These well-drained conditions mean homeowners typically don't have to battle soggy roots or major pH corrections.

Resilient Landscapes Through Dry Spells

Dallas County has seen 9 weeks of drought over the past year, with 100% of the area currently classified as abnormally dry. Fortunately, no part of the county currently faces severe D2 drought conditions. To keep lawns resilient, homeowners should prioritize deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root systems.

Planting Success in Zone 8b

Bermuda and Zoysia are excellent choices for this climate and can be established once the last spring frost passes around March 8th. You have a long window for growth before the first fall frost arrives on November 25th. Start prepping your soil now to take advantage of the county's favorable growing score.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dallas County's county score?
Dallas County, Texas has a composite county score of 26.2 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 Dallas County rank among counties in Texas?
Dallas County ranks #234 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 Dallas County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Dallas County is $4,668, with an effective tax rate of 1.68%. This earns Dallas County a tax score of 7.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Dallas County?
The median household income in Dallas County, Texas is $74,149 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Dallas County earns an income score of 75.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Dallas County, Texas a good place to live?
Dallas County scores 26.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #234 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Dallas 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 Dallas 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.