countyscore
39.4
County Score
Schools 64.1Cost of Living 57Lawn Care 51.5

County Report Card

About Freestone County, Texas

Freestone Trails Behind National Livability Norms

Freestone County earns a composite score of 39.4, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. While it lags behind much of the country, its overall ranking suggests a modest rural lifestyle with room for development.

A Competitive Choice Within the Lone Star State

The county's 39.4 score sits slightly under the Texas state average of 41.9. Despite this gap, Freestone maintains local appeal through its specific educational and housing advantages compared to its neighbors.

Strong Schools and Housing Affordability

Education is a highlight here, with a school score of 64.1 that outshines many surrounding areas. Residents also benefit from a cost score of 57.0, supported by an accessible median rent of just $844 per month.

Improving Public Safety and Health Access

Public safety and healthcare represent significant hurdles, with scores of 19.2 and 23.1 respectively. Strengthening these community pillars remains essential for improving the county's long-term livability profile.

A Budget-Friendly Haven for Young Families

This county suits families who prioritize quality schooling and affordable $164,400 home values over immediate access to urban health facilities. It offers a quiet, economical lifestyle for those looking to build roots in East Texas.

Score breakdown

Tax35.4Cost57Safety19.2Health23.1Schools64.1Income34.1Risk43.5Water43.2Weather34.6
🏛35.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠57
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼34.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡19.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤23.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓64.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡43.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧43.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤34.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.5
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

Anderson County
Texas
41
Navarro County
Texas
30.3
Leon County
Texas
48.5
Henderson County
Texas
38.8
Limestone County
Texas
32.7
Houston County
Texas
39.4
Cherokee County
Texas
33.9
Madison County
Texas
46.8

Deep Dives

Freestone County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Freestone County

via TaxByCounty

Freestone taxes rank low nationally

Freestone County's effective tax rate of 1.037% sits well below the national median property tax burden, making it more affordable than most U.S. counties. The median tax bill here is $1,705 compared to the national median of $2,690—a difference of nearly $1,000 annually.

Below-average among Texas counties

At 1.037%, Freestone's effective rate falls below Texas's state average of 1.276%, positioning it in the lower-tax tier statewide. The median tax of $1,705 is also substantially lower than Texas's state median of $2,193.

Competitive with surrounding region

Freestone offers lower tax rates than neighboring Frio County (1.590%) and Gaines County (1.468%), making it an attractive option in its region. Home values here average $164,400, creating a balanced tax burden compared to peers.

What homeowners pay annually

On the median home valued at $164,400, Freestone homeowners pay approximately $1,705 in property taxes each year. With a mortgage, you'll owe closer to $2,274; without one, expect around $1,440.

Challenge your assessment today

Many homeowners in Freestone are unaware that they can appeal their property assessments if values are overestimated. A successful challenge could reduce your annual tax bill by hundreds of dollars—it's worth reviewing your assessment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Freestone County

via CostByCounty

Freestone's rent costs less than most

At 17.3%, Freestone County's rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 18.1%, signaling better affordability for renters. The county's median rent of $844 per month sits well below Texas's state median of $963, giving renters more breathing room in their budgets.

More affordable than most Texas counties

Freestone ranks among Texas's more affordable counties, with renters spending a smaller share of income on housing than the state average. This positions the county as a value play for Texans seeking lower cost-of-living options without sacrificing access to urban corridors.

Competitive with surrounding rural counties

Freestone's rent of $844 undercuts nearby Goliad County ($724) only slightly but significantly beats Gillespie County ($1,331), making it attractive for renters priced out of Hill Country. Homebuyers here find median values of $164,400, moderate compared to pricier neighbors to the south and west.

Renters and owners both gain ground

Renters pay 17.3% of their $58,460 median income toward housing, while homeowners commit just 15.5% to a median monthly cost of $752. This balanced affordability across tenure types makes Freestone appealing to both demographic groups seeking stability and low housing cost burden.

Move here if affordability matters most

If you're relocating within Texas and want rent or mortgage payments that don't dominate your paycheck, Freestone delivers both. Compare this county's housing costs to Gillespie or Galveston, and you'll see substantial monthly savings that add up over years.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Freestone County

via IncomeByCounty

Freestone trails the nation on income

Freestone County's median household income of $58,460 falls 22% below the national median of $74,755. This gap reflects economic challenges many rural Texas counties face compared to wealthier urban and suburban regions nationwide.

Below average for Texas counties

Freestone's median income ranks in the lower tier among Texas's 254 counties, sitting 10% below the state average of $64,737. The county's per capita income of $29,170 also trails the state average of $33,197 by 12%.

Struggling alongside similar rural areas

Freestone's $58,460 income mirrors challenges in Goliad County ($59,556) and Frio County ($60,098), forming a cluster of rural Texas counties below the state average. These neighboring areas share similar economic structures and face comparable affordability pressures.

Rent is manageable, housing less so

A 17.3% rent-to-income ratio indicates renters here spend a reasonable share of earnings on housing. However, the median home value of $164,400 requires sustained income—a challenge when the median household earns well below national and state averages.

Build financial security where you are

Lower incomes don't mean you can't build wealth—they mean intentional planning matters more. Start with emergency savings, explore employer retirement benefits, and consider how dual incomes or skill development can expand household earning power in Freestone County.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Freestone County

via CrimeByCounty

Freestone County outperforms national safety averages

Freestone County maintains a strong safety score of 96.7 out of 100, indicating a secure environment for residents. Its total crime rate of 2112.3 per 100,000 residents sits comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5.

Matching the rigorous Texas safety standard

The county's safety score of 96.7 is nearly identical to the Texas state average of 96.8. While its total crime rate is slightly higher than the state average of 2052.5, it remains a competitive performer in regional safety rankings.

Local trends show a balanced safety profile

Freestone reports 2112.3 crimes per 100,000 people, which is slightly more elevated than some rural neighbors but lower than many Texas urban centers. Five reporting agencies provide a consistent view of activity across the county's diverse jurisdictions.

Property crime drives most local incidents

Property crime accounts for 1862.3 incidents per 100,000 residents, while the violent crime rate is low at 250.0. This violent crime rate is significantly safer than the national benchmark of 369.8.

Securing your Freestone County property

With property crime making up the bulk of local reports, residents should prioritize home security measures. Motion lights and reinforced entry points remain effective tools for maintaining this county's high safety standards.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Freestone County

via HealthByCounty

Freestone's life expectancy matches national trends

At 74.4 years, Freestone County residents live roughly as long as Americans nationwide, though specific national comparison data varies by source. The county's 23.2% rate of adults in poor or fair health sits close to national averages, reflecting typical rural Texas health patterns.

Slightly above average for Texas

Freestone edges out Texas's state average life expectancy of 74.3 years by just 0.1 years, placing it solidly in the middle tier of Texas counties. Its 18.9% uninsured rate runs below the state average of 19.8%, suggesting better health coverage stability than many Texas regions.

Freestone outperforms neighbors on coverage

Freestone's 18.9% uninsured rate beats Limestone, Madison, and Leon Counties in the surrounding area. The county's 30 primary care providers per 100,000 residents offer moderate access, though neighboring counties with rural characteristics often have fewer.

Moderate provider access, stable coverage

With 30 primary care providers and 34 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Freestone offers reasonable healthcare access for a Texas county. The 18.9% uninsured rate means most residents have some form of coverage, reducing barriers to routine care.

One in five Frestone residents need coverage

If you're among the 18.9% of Freestone County residents without insurance, explore options through the Texas Health Insurance Marketplace or local federally qualified health centers. Even temporary or catastrophic coverage can prevent financial hardship from unexpected medical needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Freestone County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Town Texas Education Network

Freestone County operates 12 public schools across four independent school districts, serving a total of 3,567 students. The infrastructure includes five elementary, three middle, and four high schools that provide a traditional educational path for local families. These schools are centered mostly in town and rural settings, reflecting the county’s close-knit community character.

Exceptional Graduation Rates Outpace the State

The county boasts an impressive 96.8% graduation rate, significantly higher than the Texas average of 91.6% and the national mark of 87.0%. While the per-pupil expenditure of $6,829 is lower than the state average, the county still achieves a solid school score of 56.7. This demonstrates that local educators are delivering strong results even with leaner budgets than the national average.

Fairfield and Teague Lead the Way

Fairfield ISD is the county's largest provider, educating 1,662 students across four campuses. Teague ISD follows closely with 1,216 students, while Wortham ISD serves a smaller cohort of 552. There are currently no charter schools in the county, meaning traditional public districts remain the primary choice for families.

Intimate Learning in Town and Country

With eight schools in town and four in rural locales, the average campus size is just 297 students. Fairfield High School is the county's largest campus with 489 students, offering a personal environment where students are rarely just a face in the crowd. This mix of settings ensures that every student, whether in a town center or a rural pocket, has access to localized instruction.

Plant Roots Near High-Performing Schools

Families looking for high graduation rates and small class sizes should explore homes in Fairfield or Teague. These districts offer a stable, high-performing environment for children to grow from preschool through graduation. Consider school quality a key investment factor when viewing properties in this growing region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Freestone County

via RiskByCounty

Freestone's Risk Sits Above Average

With a composite risk score of 56.52, Freestone County ranks as relatively low risk but runs above the national average of roughly 50. This means residents face somewhat elevated exposure compared to typical American counties, driven primarily by tornado and hurricane hazards.

Mid-Pack Risk Among Texas Counties

Freestone's score of 56.52 exceeds Texas's state average of 49.00, placing it in the middle tier of the state's 254 counties. The county's risk profile is typical of rural East Texas, where weather volatility shapes insurance needs.

Higher Risk Than Rural Peers

Freestone's composite score of 56.52 runs notably higher than neighboring Limestone County and similar rural counties to the east. The difference stems largely from Freestone's elevated tornado risk (73.12) and hurricane exposure (71.55), both well above regional averages.

Tornadoes and Hurricanes Dominate

Freestone faces its highest hazard risks from tornadoes (73.12) and hurricanes (71.55), both scoring in the severe range. Tornado season peaks spring through early summer, while Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November—creating a prolonged period of elevated weather threat.

Prioritize Wind and Flood Coverage

Homeowners in Freestone should ensure comprehensive wind damage coverage for tornadoes and hurricanes, plus flood insurance if in a flood-prone area. A safe room or storm shelter offers critical protection during severe weather events that can develop with little warning.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Freestone County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Consistent Weather

Freestone County averages 65.8°F annually, placing it above the national average for temperature. With 43.5 inches of annual rain, it is considered a humid and relatively wet region compared to most of the country.

Following the Texas Trend

The county's average temperature of 65.8°F is nearly identical to the Texas state average of 65.5°F. However, it is significantly rainier, beating the state precipitation average by over 11 inches.

Central Texas Climate Crossroad

Freestone experiences more rainfall than its western neighbors while avoiding the extreme humidity of the deep Gulf Coast. It shares the same heat profile as Leon and Anderson counties, with hot summers being a regional constant.

Hot Summers and Soft Winters

The area experiences 91 days of extreme heat per year, with July averages reaching 83.3°F. Winters are mild, averaging 48.7°F with almost no snowfall to speak of at 0.2 inches annually.

Ready for Sun and Rain

Residents should maintain efficient cooling systems for the three-month stretch of 90°F days. Because the county receives 43.5 inches of rain, keeping a sturdy umbrella and checking home drainage is part of local life.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Freestone County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Alfisols in the East Texas Woods

Freestone County features Alfisols with a loamy fine sand texture. Its average pH of 6.23 is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This composition is typical for the region's historic woodland environment.

Sandy Texture for Easy Working

The soil contains 56.5% sand, 23.0% silt, and 20.5% clay. This high sand content ensures excellent workability for farmers but means the soil drains quickly. Nutrient retention can be a challenge due to the lower clay percentage.

Bridging the Nutrient Gap

Organic matter sits at 1.32%, falling below the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.127 in/in also trails the state average of 0.133 in/in. Growers often use compost to improve these fertility markers.

Stable Ground and Moderate Infiltration

These well-drained soils belong to hydrologic group B, which indicates a moderate infiltration rate when wet. This makes the land stable for building foundations and general infrastructure. You can expect reliable water movement through the soil profile.

Garden Success in Zone 8b

In Hardiness Zone 8b, heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers thrive in these sandy soils. The long growing season allows for multiple harvests if you provide consistent irrigation. Start your East Texas garden to take advantage of these favorable conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Freestone County

via LawnByCounty

A Rare Texas Haven for Lawns

Freestone County earns a lawn difficulty score of 51.5, outperforming both the national median of 50.0 and the Texas state average of 31.7. This Zone 8b region offers some of the most favorable growing conditions in the state for residential turf.

Ideal Rainfall Meets Manageable Heat

The county receives 43.5 inches of annual precipitation, which sits perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal range for most grasses. With 91 extreme heat days, the local climate is less punishing than the state average of 105 days, easing the summer mowing stress.

Well-Drained Loamy Sand Foundation

The soil features a 6.23 pH, which falls squarely within the 6.0-7.0 ideal range for nutrient uptake. This well-drained loamy fine sand prevents root rot during heavy rains while requiring consistent organic matter to retain moisture.

Navigating Abnormally Dry Spells

While 100% of the county currently faces abnormally dry conditions, it has only seen 11 weeks of drought over the past year. Deep, infrequent watering early in the morning helps maintain the lawn's resilience without wasting resources.

Planting Success in Zone 8b

Bermuda and Zoysia thrive here, especially when established after the last spring frost on March 16. Aim to have your sod or seed down by mid-spring to capitalize on the 6,289 growing degree days available.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Freestone County's county score?
Freestone County, Texas has a composite county score of 39.4 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 Freestone County rank among counties in Texas?
Freestone County ranks #147 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 Freestone County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Freestone County is $1,705, with an effective tax rate of 1.04%. This earns Freestone County a tax score of 35.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Freestone County?
The median household income in Freestone County, Texas is $58,460 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Freestone County earns an income score of 34.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Freestone County, Texas a good place to live?
Freestone County scores 39.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #147 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Freestone 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 Freestone 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.