countyscore
45.5
County Score
Safety 71.9Income & Jobs 61.2Schools 56.5

County Report Card

About Gillespie County, Texas

Gillespie County Approaches National Median

Gillespie County scores a 45.5, placing it just under the national median of 50.0. This indicates a well-balanced community with several high-performing livability dimensions.

Exceeding the Texas Average Score

At 45.5, Gillespie County outperforms the Texas state average of 41.9. It is recognized as one of the more desirable and stable counties in the Texas Hill Country.

Superior Safety and Strong Incomes

Public safety is a standout feature, earning a high safety score of 71.9. Residents also enjoy a solid income score of 61.2, supported by a median household income of $67,799.

Addressing Housing Costs and Water Concerns

High demand makes housing expensive, leading to a low cost score of 19.7 and median home values of $432,300. Water sustainability is also a concern, with a score of only 9.0.

Best for Established Families and Professionals

Gillespie County suits those who value safety and prosperity and can afford higher-than-average Texas home prices. It is a premier choice for residents seeking the prestige and beauty of the Hill Country.

Score breakdown

Tax36.7Cost19.7Safety71.9Health47.2Schools56.5Income61.2Risk42.3Water9Weather36.3
🏛36.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠19.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼61.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡71.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤47.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡42.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨37.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱31.3
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

Kerr County
Texas
40.1
Mason County
Texas
64.5
Kendall County
Texas
41.3
Blanco County
Texas
49
Llano County
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Kimble County
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Bandera County
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Burnet County
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Deep Dives

Gillespie County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Gillespie County

via TaxByCounty

Gillespie's rate is exceptionally low

Gillespie County's effective tax rate of 1.019% ranks among the nation's lowest, well below the national median. Though the median tax bill of $4,404 exceeds the national median of $2,690, this reflects Gillespie's much higher median home value of $432,300.

Texas's most tax-efficient county

Gillespie's 1.019% effective rate is the lowest among all Texas counties examined here and far below the state average of 1.276%. Despite significant property wealth, Gillespie homeowners pay less per dollar of value than almost anywhere else in Texas.

Best rate in the region

Gillespie's 1.019% rate beats every regional peer, including Freestone (1.037%) and Goliad (1.035%), earning it the best tax efficiency. Higher absolute taxes reflect premium property values, not excessive rates.

What homeowners pay annually

On Gillespie's median home value of $432,300—the highest examined—homeowners pay approximately $4,404 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, you'll owe $4,780; without one, around $3,946.

Even premium properties warrant review

Gillespie County homeowners with high-value properties should still verify their assessments, as overvaluation at premium price points can inflate bills significantly. An appeal could yield substantial dollar savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Gillespie County

via CostByCounty

Gillespie's rent squeeze outpaces state

Gillespie County's rent-to-income ratio of 23.6% stands significantly above Texas's state average of 18.1%, signaling an affordability challenge for renters. Median rent of $1,331 per month far exceeds the state median of $963, driven by the county's Hill Country appeal and proximity to Austin.

Among Texas's least affordable counties

Gillespie ranks near the bottom of Texas counties for housing affordability, with renters bearing a notably heavy cost burden relative to the $67,799 median income. The county's popularity as a Hill Country destination has inflated housing costs beyond what local incomes can comfortably sustain.

Costliest rent; median homes priciest

Gillespie's $1,331 monthly rent is the highest among these eight counties, while median home values of $432,300 nearly double Galveston's $284,900. These premium prices reflect Hill Country cache and Austin-area spillover demand—but they come at the expense of affordability for average-income households.

Renters struggle; homebuyers pay dearly

Renters in Gillespie spend a staggering 23.6% of their $67,799 income on housing, the highest burden across all eight counties. Homeowners commit 18.3% to a median monthly cost of $1,033, also among the highest, making Gillespie work only for well-above-average earners.

Move here only if income allows

Gillespie rewards the well-to-do with Hill Country beauty and Austin proximity, but renters and modest earners should compare costs carefully before relocating. If you're earning significantly above $67,799, Gillespie's premium housing costs become manageable; otherwise, consider more affordable neighbors like Gaines or Garza.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Gillespie County

via IncomeByCounty

Gillespie slightly trails the nation

Gillespie County's median household income of $67,799 falls 9% short of the national median of $74,755. The Hill Country county performs better than most rural Texas peers, though still below the broader U.S. average.

Slightly above Texas average

Gillespie's median income exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737 by 5%. However, per capita income of $43,555 substantially outpaces the state average of $33,197 by 31%, suggesting concentrated wealth or high earners in the county.

Mid-range among similar areas

Gillespie's $67,799 sits between struggling rural counties like Freestone ($58,460) and wealthier regions like Galveston ($85,348). The county's Hill Country appeal attracts both retirees and tourism workers with varied income levels.

High-value homes strain incomes

Gillespie's rent-to-income ratio of 23.6% ranks among the highest, indicating housing costs consume substantial earnings. The median home value of $432,300 is the highest in this county group, making homeownership challenging despite above-average incomes.

Plan for Hill Country's premium costs

The scenic Hill Country's popularity drives property values that require careful financial planning to sustain. Focus on retirement savings, property diversification, and long-term wealth strategies rather than relying solely on appreciation in an already-expensive market.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Gillespie County

via CrimeByCounty

Gillespie County is a national safety leader

Gillespie County earns a near-perfect safety score of 98.9, far surpassing national norms. The total crime rate of 671.5 per 100,000 residents is a fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

Setting a high bar for Texas safety

The county's 98.9 safety score is significantly higher than the Texas average of 96.8. At 671.5 crimes per 100,000, Gillespie is one of the safest jurisdictions in the entire state.

Safety prevails across the Hill Country

Gillespie's low crime rate of 671.5 stands out even among its peaceful Hill Country neighbors. Two local agencies effectively manage the area, maintaining a high standard of public order for residents and tourists.

Violent crime is notably low

The violent crime rate sits at 122.4 per 100,000, well below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also minimal at 549.1, suggesting a very low risk of theft or burglary.

Protecting your home in Gillespie County

The county's high safety score is a point of pride that residents can help maintain. Standard home security measures like deadbolts and alarms ensure that property crime remains a rare occurrence.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Gillespie County

via HealthByCounty

Gillespie leads Texas in life expectancy

At 78.7 years, Gillespie County residents live roughly 4–5 years longer than the national average, placing it among America's healthiest counties. With just 18.1% reporting poor or fair health, Gillespie demonstrates exceptional wellness across multiple health measures.

Texas's longest-living county by far

Gillespie's 78.7-year life expectancy exceeds the Texas state average of 74.3 years by 4.4 years—the widest gap among all comparison counties. Its strong healthcare provider density and relatively lower poor/fair health rates reflect a prosperous Hill Country community.

Gillespie vastly outpaces surrounding counties

Gillespie's 78.7-year life expectancy and 18.1% poor/fair health rate far exceed neighboring Blanco, Llano, and Mason Counties. With 117 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Gillespie rivals major urban centers in healthcare access.

Elite provider network, solid coverage rates

Gillespie boasts 117 primary care providers and 94 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—exceptional densities that rival large metropolitan areas. Despite a 24.7% uninsured rate that slightly exceeds state average, the robust provider network ensures most residents find care options.

Gillespie: keep coverage comprehensive

While Gillespie's uninsured rate of 24.7% runs slightly above the state average, the county's outstanding provider network makes coverage valuable. Review your health plan annually through the Texas Health Insurance Marketplace to maintain access to Gillespie's excellent healthcare resources.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Gillespie County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education in the Heart of Hill Country

Gillespie County supports 3,700 students across 10 public schools and three distinct districts. The infrastructure is well-distributed, featuring five elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools. This network serves a mix of historic towns and scenic rural areas throughout the county.

High Graduation Rates and Efficient Spending

Gillespie County achieves a strong 94.1% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $6,709 is below the state average, the county still maintains a competitive school score of 55.1. These results highlight the efficiency and dedication of the local teaching staff.

Fredericksburg ISD Leads the Region

Fredericksburg ISD is the largest district, educating 3,094 students across six specialized campuses. Harper ISD serves another 584 students, while Doss Consolidated CSD operates a single, very small school. No charter schools exist in the county, making traditional districts the cornerstone of the community.

A Blend of Large Town and Tiny Rural Schools

The county features an even split with five schools in town and five in rural locales, resulting in an average enrollment of 370. Fredericksburg High School is the largest with 1,003 students, while Doss Consolidated CSD serves just 22. This variety allows families to choose between a comprehensive high school experience and incredibly intimate rural learning.

Find Your Hill Country Home Near Top Schools

Families are drawn to Gillespie County for its scenic beauty and its high-performing schools. With a 94% graduation rate, the Fredericksburg and Harper areas offer excellent educational prospects for children. Consider the local school district a major plus when browsing for your next home in the Hill Country.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Gillespie County

via RiskByCounty

Gillespie's Risk Moderately Above Average

Gillespie's composite risk score of 57.70 classifies it as relatively low risk but exceeds the national average around 50. The Hill Country county faces notable wildfire and flood exposures that elevate its overall hazard profile.

Above Texas Average in Hill Country

At 57.70, Gillespie's score surpasses Texas's state average of 49.00, placing it in the upper-middle tier of state risk rankings. The county's terrain and vegetation patterns create elevated wildfire and flash flood conditions typical of Hill Country communities.

Similar Risk to Surrounding Hill Country

Gillespie's composite score of 57.70 aligns closely with neighboring Blanco (56) and Llano (58) counties across the Hill Country region. All three counties share similar topography, drought patterns, and fire-prone cedar-oak terrain.

Wildfire and Flood Dominate Hazards

Gillespie faces high wildfire risk (84.00) and significant flood exposure (68.10), while tornado (70.17) risk remains elevated. Cedar and oak forests fuel rapid wildfires, while steep terrain and creek systems create flash flood danger during heavy rain events.

Defensible Space and Flood Awareness

Gillespie residents should maintain 30+ feet of cleared vegetation around structures and ensure gutters and drainage are clear of debris. Flood insurance is essential for properties near creeks and flood plains; wind coverage is critical for wildfire smoke and embers.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Gillespie County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Hill Country temperate conditions

Gillespie County reports an annual average temperature of 65.1°F, notably higher than the U.S. median. This region bridges the gap between the humid east and the arid west.

Reflecting the heart of Texas weather

The county's 65.1°F average is almost identical to the Texas state average of 65.5°F. Its 30.4 inches of annual precipitation also closely tracks the state norm of 31.9 inches.

Balanced climate in the Edwards Plateau

Gillespie enjoys slightly cooler July averages (81.3°F) than the lower-elevation counties to the east. It is significantly drier than coastal counties but retains more moisture than its West Texas neighbors.

Hot, sunny summers and mild winters

The area endures 95 days above 90°F, contributing to a summer average of 80.5°F. Winters are mild with a 49.0°F average and only trace amounts of snow at 0.1 inches.

Sun protection and versatile HVAC needs

High-quality sun protection is necessary for the 95 days of extreme heat each year. While snow is rare, residents should be prepared for occasional winter freezes that can drop temperatures below the 47.1°F January average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Gillespie County

via SoilByCounty

Prime Inceptisols in the Hill Country

Gillespie County features Inceptisols with a silty clay texture. Its average pH of 6.89 is nearly ideal, sitting just above the national median of 6.5. These soils represent some of the most balanced growing conditions in central Texas.

Fine Texture and High Clay Content

The soil contains 39.6% sand, 28.6% silt, and a significant 26.2% clay. This high clay and silt percentage allows for excellent nutrient retention and soil stability. It provides a heavy, rich foundation that is perfect for permanent crops like orchards.

Above-Average Organic Richness

Organic matter content is 1.78%, which exceeds the Texas state average of 1.66%. While the available water capacity of 0.127 in/in is slightly below the state average of 0.133 in/in, the nutrient profile remains strong. This is a highly productive landscape for dedicated growers.

Well-Drained Ground for Healthy Roots

These soils are well drained and belong to hydrologic group B, offering moderate infiltration rates. This prevents root rot in sensitive plants and provides a solid base for construction. The natural drainage makes Gillespie a premier location for agriculture.

Peaches and Grapes in Zone 8b

Gillespie County is famous for peaches and vineyards, which thrive in this well-drained, pH-balanced soil. Hardiness Zone 8b provides the perfect climate for these high-value crops to flourish. Start your own backyard orchard to tap into this rich local tradition.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Gillespie County

via LawnByCounty

Hill Country Growing Conditions

Gillespie County's lawn difficulty score of 31.3 matches the Texas state average almost exactly. In Zone 8b, homeowners must balance the region's natural beauty with the demands of maintaining healthy turf.

Average Rainfall and Hot Summers

The county averages 30.4 inches of rain, hitting the low end of the ideal 30-50 inch range. While 95 extreme heat days are standard for Texas, the 6,035 growing degree days provide a robust window for grass development.

Excellent Soil for Turfgrass

The soil pH of 6.89 is nearly ideal, requiring very few chemical amendments to reach the sweet spot for grass health. The silty clay texture is well-drained, providing a stable foundation that holds nutrients better than sandier counties.

Monitoring Hill Country Droughts

The area has endured 38 weeks of drought over the past year, though only 7.5% is currently in severe drought. Utilizing rain barrels can provide a supplemental water source to keep your lawn green when local restrictions tighten.

Spring Starts in the Hill Country

Zoysia and Bermuda are popular choices that thrive in the local well-drained silty clay. Your growing season officially kicks off after the last frost on March 18, providing ample time for establishing roots.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gillespie County's county score?
Gillespie County, Texas has a composite county score of 45.5 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 Gillespie County rank among counties in Texas?
Gillespie County ranks #101 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 Gillespie County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Gillespie County is $4,404, with an effective tax rate of 1.02%. This earns Gillespie County a tax score of 36.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Gillespie County?
The median household income in Gillespie County, Texas is $67,799 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Gillespie County earns an income score of 61.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Gillespie County, Texas a good place to live?
Gillespie County scores 45.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #101 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Gillespie 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 Gillespie 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.