countyscore
55.4
County Score
Cost of Living 90.8Disaster Risk 73.4Schools 65.8

County Report Card

About Donley County, Texas

Beating the National Median

Donley County earns a strong composite score of 55.4, placing it comfortably above the national median of 50.0. This performance suggests a quality of life that outpaces the average American county.

Leading the Texas Average

The county significantly outperforms the Texas state average composite score of 41.9. It serves as a high-performing outlier in the Panhandle region.

Unbeatable Housing Affordability

The county's cost score of 90.8 is among the best in the state, driven by a median home value of just $90,500. Additionally, the risk score of 73.4 indicates a very stable environment regarding natural disasters.

Opportunities in Health and Income

Health services are a notable challenge with a dimension score of 22.9. Median household incomes also lag at $56,648, resulting in an income score of 29.2.

The Ideal Budget-Friendly Retreat

Donley is a perfect fit for retirees or remote workers looking to maximize their housing dollar. It offers a safe, low-cost lifestyle for those who do not require immediate access to major medical centers.

Score breakdown

Tax29.4Cost90.8Safety59.3Health22.9Schools65.8Income29.2Risk73.4Water56.8Weather52.9
🏛29.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠90.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼29.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡59.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤22.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓65.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡73.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧56.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨24.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱35.2
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

Hall County
Texas
57.5
Armstrong County
Texas
37.1
Gray County
Texas
31.1
Briscoe County
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47.7
Collingsworth County
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Carson County
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Wheeler County
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Childress County
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Deep Dives

Donley County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Donley County

via TaxByCounty

Donley's taxes rank well below national average

At 1.126%, Donley County's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of roughly 0.88%, putting homeowners in a favorable position nationally. The median property tax here is $1,019—less than 38% of the national median of $2,690—reflecting both lower home values and a moderate tax burden.

Among the lowest-taxing counties in Texas

Donley County's effective rate of 1.126% runs below Texas's statewide average of 1.276%, ranking it in the lower half of the state's 254 counties. Residents pay $1,019 in median property tax versus the state average of $2,193, a significant advantage.

Competitive with surrounding Panhandle counties

Donley's 1.126% rate matches Erath County exactly and undercuts Eastland County's 1.192%, placing it solidly in the Panhandle's tax-friendly range. Among its regional peers, only Edwards County (1.051%) and Duval County (1.077%) offer lower rates.

Median home costs about $1,019 annually

With a median home value of $90,500, typical Donley County homeowners pay roughly $1,019 per year in property taxes. This figure assumes a home at the county median without mortgage interest deductions; those with mortgages may pay slightly higher when school taxes apply.

Check if your home's value is accurate

Many Texas homeowners are overassessed by county appraisers, meaning you may be paying taxes on inflated valuations. It's worth requesting a property tax exemption review or filing a protest with your appraisal district to ensure you're only paying on what your home is actually worth.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Donley County

via CostByCounty

Donley rents cheap compared to nation

Renters in Donley County spend just 14.5% of their income on housing—well below the national median of roughly 28%. That affordability advantage reflects both modest rents ($686/month) and a cost of living that lags the nation's $74,755 median household income.

Texas's most affordable rent burden

At 14.5%, Donley County has one of Texas's lowest rent-to-income ratios, compared to the state average of 18.1%. This puts the county in an enviable position for renters seeking affordable housing in a pricey state.

Cheaper than surrounding Panhandle

Donley County's $686 monthly rent undercuts neighboring Eastland County ($803) and Erath County ($1,134), making it the most affordable option in its region. Median home values here ($90,500) are also among the lowest in the comparison area.

Rent and mortgage both modest

Renters spend $686/month while homeowners pay $512/month, both reasonable against the $56,648 median household income. Together, these housing costs consume less than 15% of typical household earnings, leaving more for other expenses.

Remote workers, consider Donley

If you're relocating to Texas with portable income, Donley County offers unbeatable housing affordability and a quiet rural setting. Compare these rents and home prices to booming Austin or Dallas to see how much your dollars stretch.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Donley County

via IncomeByCounty

Donley trails national income benchmark

Donley County's median household income of $56,648 falls about $18,100 short of the national median of $74,755. This 24% gap suggests residents here earn considerably less than typical American households, reflecting the county's rural character and limited job diversity.

Below-average earner among Texas counties

At $56,648, Donley's median household income ranks below Texas's state average of $64,737 by roughly $8,100. The county's per capita income of $27,623 also lags the state average of $33,197, indicating less wealth spread across the population.

Mid-pack in the Texas Panhandle region

Donley County's income profile sits between struggling rural counties and stronger performers in its region. Ellis County nearby earns $95,898 median household income—69% higher—while Edwards County manages just $38,500, showing significant variation across the Panhandle.

Rent remains manageable, homes affordable

With a rent-to-income ratio of 14.5%, Donley residents spend a reasonable share of earnings on housing—well below the national 30% concern threshold. Median home values of $90,500 are also accessible relative to local incomes, supporting homeownership.

Build stability through long-term planning

Donley County's modest but stable incomes create an opportunity to prioritize savings and investment discipline. Consider working with a financial advisor to develop a diversified portfolio and retirement strategy that compounds wealth over decades, even on rural wages.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Donley County

via CrimeByCounty

Donley County Outperforms National Safety Benchmarks

The county records a total crime rate of 940.0 per 100K, which is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This low activity earns the area an exceptional safety score of 98.5 out of 100.

Safety Levels Exceed the Texas State Average

Donley's safety score of 98.5 sits comfortably above the Texas state average of 96.8. While only one reporting agency provides data, the numbers indicate a very quiet regional environment.

Local Crime Rates Rival Regional Peers

Donley's rate of 940.0 per 100K is even lower than Erath County's rate of 1,018.9. Both counties remain significantly more secure than busier urban centers across the state.

Property Crimes Drive the Local Statistics

Property crime sits at 576.1 per 100K, while violent crime accounts for 363.9 per 100K. These figures remain well below the national property crime average of 2,015.7.

Vigilance Protects Your Rural Property

Even with low crime rates, securing outbuildings and ranch equipment remains a smart priority. Use motion-activated lighting to deter opportunistic theft in more secluded areas.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Donley County

via HealthByCounty

Donley's life expectancy lags nation

Donley County residents live to 73.3 years on average, about 2 years less than the U.S. average of 75.4 years. One in five residents (20.8%) report poor or fair health, slightly above the national poor/fair health rate of 19.5%.

Below average across Texas

Donley County ranks below the Texas average for life expectancy at 73.3 years compared to the state's 74.3 years. The county's uninsured rate of 21.5% exceeds Texas's 19.8% average, leaving more residents without coverage.

Comparable to rural Texas peers

Donley's 73.3-year life expectancy aligns with other rural panhandle counties facing similar healthcare access challenges. Its 20.8% poor/fair health rate falls between nearby Eastland County (22.1%) and Erath County (21.2%).

Rural healthcare access unclear

Donley County reports a 21.5% uninsured rate, meaning roughly one in five residents lack health coverage. Data on primary care and mental health provider availability is currently unavailable, making it difficult to assess local access to specialists.

Check your insurance options now

With over one in five Donley County residents uninsured, exploring coverage options through the Texas Health Insurance Marketplace or local community health centers could improve access to preventive care. Residents earning below 200% of poverty level may qualify for Medicaid expansion or subsidized plans.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Donley County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Education Network

Donley County operates a lean education infrastructure with four total public schools across two school districts. This rural network serves 551 students through a single elementary, middle, and high school, plus one additional specialized campus.

Strong Graduation Rates with Local Investment

The county boasts a 90.2% graduation rate, significantly outpacing the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil expenditure of $8,971 is below the national average, it exceeds the Texas state average of $7,498, contributing to a solid school score of 57.9.

Clarendon Leads the County

Clarendon ISD is the primary provider here, managing three schools and 434 students. Hedley ISD serves as the smaller alternative, operating a single PK-12 campus for 117 students.

Intimate Rural Learning Environments

All four schools in the county are classified as rural, offering a tight-knit community feel with an average school size of just 138 students. Clarendon Elementary is the largest campus with 215 students, while Clarendon Junior High offers a highly personalized setting for its 88 students.

Finding Your Home in Clarendon

Families seeking a close-knit, rural atmosphere often look toward Clarendon for its consistent academic performance and small class sizes. With graduation rates beating national benchmarks, this area provides a stable foundation for young residents.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Donley County

via RiskByCounty

Donley County's Risk Profile

Donley County scores 26.62 on the national composite risk scale, placing it in the Very Low category—well below the typical U.S. county average. This means residents face significantly lower exposure to major natural disasters compared to the nation as a whole. The county's manageable risk profile makes it one of the safer areas for natural hazard planning.

Among the Safest in Texas

With a composite risk score of 26.62, Donley County ranks as one of the lowest-risk counties in Texas, where the state average sits at 49.00. This substantial 46% gap below the state mean reflects the county's relative protection from the major hazard types that threaten other Texas communities. Donley residents enjoy significantly lower overall natural disaster exposure than most Texans.

Safer Than Regional Peers

Donley County's 26.62 score is substantially lower than neighboring Eastland County (41.16) and Erath County (75.00), making it the safest in its immediate region. Even Edwards County, another low-risk area in West Texas, scores only slightly lower at 5.73. Donley's position reflects its geographic isolation from the state's most hazard-prone corridors.

Wildfire and Tornado Watch

Wildfire risk dominates Donley County's hazard profile at 84.51—the county's single greatest exposure despite its overall low composite score. Tornado risk ranks second at 40.24, reflecting the Panhandle's exposure to severe spring and summer storms. Both hazards require targeted preparedness even in this generally low-risk county.

Essential Coverage for Donley Residents

While Donley County's overall risk is low, wildfire insurance and comprehensive storm coverage are critical given those specific hazard scores. Standard homeowners policies often exclude wildfire damage, so review your coverage or purchase supplemental protection. Talk to your agent about tornado and hail riders to close gaps in your protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Donley County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate Temperatures in the Texas Panhandle

Donley County averages 59.2°F annually, which is slightly warmer than the national median. Its 22.7 inches of rain per year creates a semi-arid climate typical of the Southern Great Plains.

A Cooler Corner of the Lone Star State

Donley is 6.3 degrees cooler than the state average of 65.5°F, reflecting its northern latitude. It also sees about 9 inches less rain than the Texas average of 31.9 inches.

Transitioning Between the Plains and Prairies

Donley shares the windy, dry profile of Gray and Armstrong counties. It receives slightly more rain than the western Panhandle but remains much drier than Central Texas.

Hot July Days and Noticeable Snowfall

The county sees 89 days of extreme heat above 90°F, mostly during the 80.8°F July peak. Winter brings 3.5 inches of snow and a January average of 38.1°F.

Plan for Variable Plains Weather

Residents should prepare for both the 89 heat days and the 3.5 inches of winter snow. Insulation and windproofing are key for maintaining home comfort during the breezy seasonal shifts.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Donley County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Loam Mollisols Define Donley County

Dominant Loam Mollisols characterize the local landscape. The average pH of 7.49 is significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5.

A Balanced Mix for Easy Working

The soil features 52.7% sand, 27.6% silt, and 19.4% clay. This loamy composition offers excellent workability and enough structure to support healthy root systems.

Strong Water Capacity Despite Lower Organic Matter

Organic matter sits at 1.41%, which is below the state average of 1.66%. However, the available water capacity of 0.138 in/in beats the Texas average, providing a reliable hydration reservoir.

Well Drained Land for Efficient Farming

These soils are well drained and belong to hydrologic group B. This classification means the land manages rainfall effectively with moderate infiltration rates during storms.

Zone 7a Supports Hardy High Plains Crops

Donley County sits in hardiness zone 7a, perfect for winter wheat and cool-season vegetables. Gardeners can find great success in this fertile loam by starting seeds in early spring.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Donley County

via LawnByCounty

Donley County Lawn Care Challenges

Donley County earns a lawn difficulty score of 35.2, making it easier to maintain than the Texas average of 31.7. While it sits below the national median of 50.0, the USDA Hardiness Zone 7a climate provides a manageable environment for resilient turf.

High Heat and Moderate Rain

With only 22.7 inches of annual precipitation, local lawns fall short of the 30-inch ideal for optimal growth. Homeowners manage 89 extreme heat days and 4,732 growing degree days, requiring focused irrigation during the peak summer months.

Well-Drained Loam Soils

The local soil is a well-drained loam with a high sand content of 52.7%, which prevents waterlogging but may require more frequent watering. The pH level of 7.49 is slightly alkaline compared to the 6.0-7.0 ideal, often necessitating sulfur-based amendments.

Navigating Periodic Drought Cycles

Lawns faced 21 weeks of drought over the past year, and currently, 100% of the county experiences abnormally dry conditions. Deep, infrequent watering encourages roots to reach deeper into the soil to survive these dry spells.

Start Growing in Zone 7a

Bermudagrass and buffalograss are excellent choices for this climate given their heat tolerance. Aim to seed after the last frost around April 14 to take full advantage of the warming spring soil.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Donley County's county score?
Donley County, Texas has a composite county score of 55.4 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 Donley County rank among counties in Texas?
Donley County ranks #32 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 Donley County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Donley County is $1,019, with an effective tax rate of 1.13%. This earns Donley County a tax score of 29.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Donley County?
The median household income in Donley County, Texas is $56,648 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Donley County earns an income score of 29.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Donley County, Texas a good place to live?
Donley County scores 55.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Donley 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 Donley 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.