countyscore
51.4
County Score
Cost of Living 78.9Disaster Risk 77.4Schools 67.7

County Report Card

About Goliad County, Texas

Goliad County Outperforms National Median

Goliad County earns a composite score of 51.4, successfully beating the national median of 50.0. It represents a high-quality rural lifestyle with strong fundamental scores.

Significantly Above the Texas Average

The county's score of 51.4 is nearly ten points higher than the Texas average of 41.9. It stands out as an exceptionally balanced and livable part of the state.

Extreme Affordability and High Resilience

Housing is incredibly affordable, with a cost score of 78.9 and a median rent of only $724. It is also a safe bet for stability, reflected in a robust risk score of 77.4.

Moderating Water and Tax Concerns

The county faces moderate challenges with its water score of 36.2 and tax score of 35.5. While not critical, these areas represent the primary limitations to an otherwise excellent profile.

Top Choice for Budget-Conscious Families

Goliad County is a premier destination for those who want low living costs and minimal natural disaster risks. It offers a solid, middle-class lifestyle with great value for every dollar spent.

Score breakdown

Tax35.5Cost78.9Safety37.6Health40.6Schools67.7Income37.6Risk77.4Water36.2Weather17.2
🏛35.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠78.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼37.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡37.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤40.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓67.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡77.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧36.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤17.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨36.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱32.8
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

Bee County
Texas
28.1
DeWitt County
Texas
44.9
Victoria County
Texas
23.6
Karnes County
Texas
41.7
Refugio County
Texas
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Live Oak County
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San Patricio County
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Aransas County
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Deep Dives

Goliad County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Goliad County

via TaxByCounty

Goliad taxes remain below national median

Goliad County's effective tax rate of 1.035% falls comfortably below the national median, and the median tax bill of $1,892 is significantly lower than the national median of $2,690. Home values averaging $182,800 make Goliad an affordable option nationwide.

Below-average taxes statewide

Goliad's 1.035% effective rate sits below Texas's state average of 1.276%, positioning it in the lower-tax category across the state. The median tax of $1,892 is also lower than the state median of $2,193.

Competitive among region peers

Goliad's 1.035% rate nearly matches Freestone (1.037%) and beats Frio (1.590%) and Gaines (1.468%), making it one of the region's best values. The median tax of $1,892 reflects a healthy balance of rate and property values.

What homeowners pay annually

On Goliad's median home value of $182,800, homeowners pay approximately $1,892 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, you'll owe $2,686; without one, around $1,381.

Appeal your assessment today

Goliad County homeowners should review their property assessments to ensure valuations reflect current market conditions accurately. A successful appeal could reduce your already-reasonable tax burden even further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Goliad County

via CostByCounty

Goliad delivers genuine rent bargains

Goliad County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% sits well below Texas's state average of 18.1% and national norms, offering renters significant monthly relief. At $724 per month, median rent ranks among the lowest across these eight counties, providing exceptional value relative to the $59,556 median household income.

Highly affordable throughout Texas

Goliad ranks among Texas's most affordable counties for renters, with housing costs consuming a smaller share of income than typical. The combination of modest rent and moderate income creates genuine breathing room in household budgets.

Lowest rent among rural neighbors

Goliad's $724 monthly rent is the lowest in this cohort, undercutting Gaines ($788), Freestone ($844), and Frio ($1,006) substantially. Median home values of $182,800 pair sensibly with this affordable rental market, making Goliad a balanced option across both housing tenure types.

Both renters and owners gain value

Renters in Goliad spend just 14.6% of their $59,556 income on housing, the second-best ratio among all eight counties. Homeowners commit 13.1% to a median monthly cost of $654, creating rare affordability parity between tenure types.

Move here for balanced, true affordability

Goliad delivers the full package for cost-conscious relocators: the lowest rent in this group, affordable homeownership, and a genuine cost-of-living advantage. If you want both renting and buying options that won't strain your budget, Goliad deserves your attention.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Goliad County

via IncomeByCounty

Goliad trails national income levels

Goliad County's median household income of $59,556 falls 20% below the national median of $74,755. This rural South Texas county shares income challenges common to agricultural and ranch-dependent regions.

Below state average in Texas

Goliad's median income trails the Texas state average of $64,737 by 8%, placing it in the lower-income half of state counties. Per capita income of $38,705 sits 16% above the state average, suggesting some high earners offset lower incomes elsewhere.

Similar struggles in rural South Texas

Goliad's $59,556 clusters with Freestone ($58,460) and Frio ($60,098), forming a regional band of economically pressed rural counties. All three rely heavily on agriculture, ranching, and limited urban employment centers.

Affordable housing supports stability

Goliad's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio is healthy, among the best in this group, with the median home value of $182,800 achievable for typical households. Relative affordability provides a foundation for wealth building despite modest incomes.

Build on rural affordability advantages

Lower housing costs create space to save and invest despite below-average incomes—a rarity among rural counties. Prioritize emergency funds, home equity building, and diversified income streams to maximize limited but stable earnings in Goliad County.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Goliad County

via CrimeByCounty

Goliad County remains safer than national average

Goliad County maintains a safety score of 97.7, signaling a secure community for its residents. Its total crime rate of 1438.2 per 100,000 is well below the national average of 2,385.5.

Goliad exceeds Texas safety averages

The county's safety score of 97.7 sits above the Texas average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 1438.2 is also significantly lower than the state's average of 2052.5 per 100,000 residents.

Consistent safety from a single agency

One local agency provides the data for Goliad County, showing a crime rate of 1438.2. This indicates a stable environment when compared to more volatile coastal or urban counties nearby.

Understanding the local crime mix

Violent crime is low at 211.5 per 100,000, compared to the national rate of 369.8. Property crime stands at 1226.7, making up the vast majority of law enforcement activity in the area.

Securing your Goliad County home

Residents should remain proactive about property safety to keep crime rates low. Visible security measures like outdoor cameras can deter property crimes and help maintain the county's high safety ranking.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Goliad County

via HealthByCounty

Goliad's life expectancy leads the nation

At 77.8 years, Goliad County residents live 3–4 years longer than the national average, positioning it among America's healthiest communities. With 21.3% reporting poor or fair health, Goliad performs above national norms on self-reported wellness metrics.

Among Texas's longest-living counties

Goliad's 77.8-year life expectancy exceeds the Texas state average of 74.3 years by 3.5 years, placing it in the state's top tier. Its 16.5% uninsured rate is the second-best among comparison counties, reflecting strong healthcare access.

Goliad leads South Texas on life expectancy

Goliad's 77.8-year life expectancy and 16.5% uninsured rate substantially outpace neighboring Victoria, DeWitt, and Refugio Counties. The county's 21.3% poor/fair health rate also runs better than most surrounding South Texas communities.

Strong coverage, limited primary care data

Goliad's 16.5% uninsured rate ensures most residents have access to healthcare, though specific primary care provider counts are unavailable. The county's 14 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, combined with strong coverage rates, supports mental health access.

Goliad residents: keep coverage continuous

With one of Texas's lowest uninsured rates at 16.5%, Goliad residents understand insurance value—but those without coverage should act now. Visit the Texas Health Insurance Marketplace to explore plans and ensure uninterrupted access to the healthcare that supports Goliad's exceptional longevity.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Goliad County

via SchoolsByCounty

Historic Goliad’s Centralized Schools

Goliad County manages three public schools that serve a total of 1,312 students within a single school district. The system is comprised of one elementary, one middle, and one high school, providing a clear and consistent path for students as they grow. This centralized structure makes the school system the literal and figurative center of the county.

Leading the Pack in Graduation Success

Goliad County features a remarkable 97.0% graduation rate, one of the highest in the state of Texas. Despite a per-pupil expenditure of $7,004, which is below the state average, the county achieves a strong school score of 57.2. These numbers prove that Goliad’s schools are exceptionally effective at preparing students for life after graduation.

Goliad ISD Serves All

Goliad ISD is the only district in the county, providing a unified educational experience for all 1,312 students. There are no charter schools, meaning the community's resources and support are entirely focused on this single traditional public system. This creates a stable and predictable environment for families moving into the area.

Mid-Sized Rural Campuses

All three schools are situated in rural locales, yet they maintain a mid-sized feel with an average of 437 students per campus. Goliad Elementary is the largest school with 617 students, while Goliad High School serves 405. This balance offers the benefits of a rural setting without the isolation of extremely small class sizes.

Secure Your Home Near Top-Performing Goliad Schools

Goliad County’s stellar 97% graduation rate makes it a top-tier destination for families in South Texas. Buying a home in this district means joining a community with a proven track record of academic success. Explore properties in Goliad to take advantage of this high-performing, centralized school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Goliad County

via RiskByCounty

Goliad's Risk Remains Below Average

Goliad's composite risk score of 22.58 ranks as very low, sitting well below the national average around 50. The South Texas county's modest overall exposure masks a notable hurricane vulnerability that deserves attention.

Below Average for Texas Overall

At 22.58, Goliad's score sits significantly below Texas's state average of 49.00, ranking it among the lower-risk counties statewide. The county's inland location buffers it from sustained disaster exposure.

Safer Than Most Surrounding Counties

Goliad's composite score of 22.58 runs lower than neighboring DeWitt (45) and Jackson (52) counties. The difference reflects Goliad's distance from major flood corridors and storm-track centers.

Hurricane Risk Dominates Profile

Despite its overall low score, Goliad faces significant hurricane exposure (85.02), while flood (19.94), tornado (30.98), and wildfire (55.73) risks remain manageable. The county's position in the Gulf coastal zone creates seasonal hurricane vulnerability that contrasts with its otherwise favorable risk profile.

Prioritize Wind Coverage for Hurricanes

Goliad residents should maintain comprehensive wind insurance for hurricane season (June through November), while flood insurance is optional for most areas except near waterways. A basic emergency kit and evacuation plan provide adequate protection for the county's modest overall hazard exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Goliad County

via WeatherByCounty

Deep South Texas heat and humidity

Goliad County averages 70.3°F annually, placing it among the warmer regions in the United States. Its climate is defined by long, intense summers and very short, mild winters.

Exceeding state averages for heat

The county's 70.3°F average is nearly 5 degrees higher than the Texas state average. It also receives 35.2 inches of rain, making it slightly wetter than the state average of 31.9 inches.

Hotter than the nearby coastal plains

With 122 days of extreme heat, Goliad is significantly hotter than coastal neighbors like Calhoun County. Its 54.1°F January average keeps it consistently warmer than the state's northern interior.

Persistent heat and negligible winter snow

Extreme heat is the norm here, with 122 days reaching 90°F or higher and a July average of 83.8°F. Snow is nearly unheard of at 0.1 inches, as winter temperatures average a balmy 55.9°F.

Focus on cooling and moisture control

Intense heat mitigation is the priority, requiring high-capacity cooling systems for the four-month peak summer. Residents should also prepare for high humidity levels that accompany the 35.2 inches of annual rain.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Goliad County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Sands of the Coastal Plain

Goliad County has a nearly neutral average pH of 7.06, slightly above the national median of 6.5. While detailed taxonomic data is not available, this pH level is excellent for a wide variety of Texas plants. It creates a flexible foundation for the county's varied agricultural needs.

Sand-Heavy Mix for Rapid Drainage

The soil is 59.1% sand, 19.3% silt, and 21.6% clay. This high sand percentage means water moves quickly through the top layers, reducing the risk of waterlogged roots. However, it also means nutrients can wash away faster than in heavier soils.

Healthy Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter is strong at 1.83%, surpassing the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.131 in/in is nearly on par with the state average of 0.133 in/in. These balanced metrics support a thriving natural ecosystem and productive gardens.

Hydrologic Group D Challenges

Goliad County is categorized in hydrologic group D, which indicates a very slow infiltration rate in the deeper profile. This creates a high potential for surface runoff during heavy coastal rains. Homeowners and builders should plan for effective water diversion to protect their property.

Heat-Loving Vegetables in Zone 9a

Hardiness Zone 9a is perfect for warm-season vegetables and coastal grasses. The neutral pH and high organic matter provide a great environment for home vegetable patches to succeed. Dig in today and enjoy the benefits of Goliad's long, warm growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Goliad County

via LawnByCounty

Warm and Sandy Coastal Plains

Goliad County earns a lawn difficulty score of 32.8, placing it slightly above the Texas state average of 31.7. This Zone 9a region offers a long growing season but requires significant heat management.

Intense Heat with Decent Rain

Residents navigate 122 extreme heat days, which is much higher than the state average of 105. While 35.2 inches of annual rain helps, the 7,577 growing degree days mean grass grows fast and needs frequent mowing.

Neutral Soils for Easy Growth

A soil pH of 7.06 is near-neutral, making it easy to manage without heavy lime or sulfur treatments. The soil is 59.1% sand, which offers good drainage but means you must monitor moisture levels closely during the summer.

Severe Drought Persistence

The entire county is currently experiencing severe drought, having dealt with these conditions for 41 weeks of the past year. Focus on soil health by avoiding heavy nitrogen fertilizers during these dry periods to reduce grass stress.

Warm-Season Turf Success

St. Augustine and Bermuda are excellent for these sandy soils and hot summers. With the last frost usually passing by February 25, you can get a head start on your lawn before the triple-digit temperatures arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Goliad County's county score?
Goliad County, Texas has a composite county score of 51.4 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 Goliad County rank among counties in Texas?
Goliad County ranks #54 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 Goliad County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Goliad County is $1,892, with an effective tax rate of 1.03%. This earns Goliad County a tax score of 35.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Goliad County?
The median household income in Goliad County, Texas is $59,556 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Goliad County earns an income score of 37.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Goliad County, Texas a good place to live?
Goliad County scores 51.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #54 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Goliad 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 Goliad 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.