countyscore
32.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 67.5Schools 53.4Lawn Care 50.9

County Report Card

About Grayson County, Texas

Mid-Tier Performance in National Livability

Grayson County records a composite score of 32.8, which is below the national median of 50.0. Despite being a growing region, it currently sits in the lower half of the national ranking. This suggests that while economic inputs are strong, other livability factors are still catching up.

Bridging the Gap Toward Texas Averages

The county's 32.8 score is nearly ten points below the Texas average of 41.9. However, its strong economic indicators suggest it is better positioned for growth than many of its rural neighbors. It serves as an evolving transition zone between urban and rural Texas life.

High Income Potential and Decent Schools

Grayson County's standout feature is an Income Score of 67.5, supported by a median household income of $70,455. The School Score of 53.4 also provides a respectable foundation for resident families. These strengths attract working professionals looking for better-than-average wages.

High Costs and Environmental Vulnerabilities

Cost of living is a major hurdle, with a very low Cost Score of 19.0 and median rents reaching $1,178. Environmental factors are also a concern, with a Risk Score of 19.7 and a Water Score of 31.4. Residents pay a premium for the area's higher income opportunities.

A Hub for Regional Professionals

This county is best for career-oriented families who value the $70,455 median income and are willing to pay higher housing costs. It balances professional opportunity with solid educational infrastructure. It is less ideal for those seeking a low-cost sanctuary or pristine environmental conditions.

Score breakdown

Tax21.2Cost19Safety35.1Health28.6Schools53.4Income67.5Risk19.7Water31.4Weather47.7
🏛21.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠19
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼67.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡35.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤28.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡19.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧31.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨32.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.9
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

Marshall County
Oklahoma
39.3
Bryan County
Oklahoma
35
Cooke County
Texas
37.1
Love County
Oklahoma
44.1
Fannin County
Texas
46.2
Johnston County
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49.7
Collin County
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30.4
Denton County
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26.2

Deep Dives

Grayson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Grayson County

via TaxByCounty

Grayson taxes exceed national median

Grayson County's effective tax rate of 1.294% slightly exceeds the Texas state average of 1.276%, and its median property tax of $2,953 surpasses the national median of $2,690 by 10%. Homes here average $228,300, reflecting the county's more developed character.

Upper half of Texas tax burden

At $2,953 in median annual taxes, Grayson County ranks above the Texas state average of $2,193, placing it in the higher-tax counties statewide. Its 1.294% rate edges past the state average, signaling above-average tax pressure.

Grayson leads North Texas in taxes paid

Grayson homeowners pay $2,953 annually on a median home of $228,300, outpacing most Texas counties. Compared to counties like Gregg ($2,271), Grayson residents shoulder notably heavier tax burdens despite similar property values.

Annual property tax in Grayson County

Own the median-valued home at $228,300 in Grayson County and you'll owe approximately $2,953 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, expect to pay $3,755 when mortgage-related assessments are factored in.

Overassessment is common—appeal yours

Grayson County residents frequently pay taxes on assessments that exceed current market value. A free tax appeal to the appraisal district can recalibrate your assessed value and reduce your annual obligation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Grayson County

via CostByCounty

Grayson renters pay more than average

Grayson County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.1% exceeds the national average of 18.1%, meaning renters here shoulder above-average housing burdens. The county's median rent of $1,178 is significantly higher than the national typical, reflecting a tighter market.

Among Texas's pricier rental markets

Grayson County's 20.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks above the Texas state average of 18.1%, placing it among the state's more expensive counties for renters. The median home value of $228,300 reflects a market with stronger demand and higher barriers to entry.

The most expensive in this county cluster

Grayson's $1,178 median rent far outpaces nearby Hall County ($610), Hale County ($798), and Gray County ($898). Among the eight counties examined, only Guadalupe County ($1,439) sees higher rents, making Grayson a distinctly pricier option for renters.

Homeownership easier than renting

Renters in Grayson pay $1,178 monthly (20.1% of the $70,455 median income), while homeowners pay $1,131 (16.1%)—making ownership slightly cheaper than renting. Both options demand meaningful income commitment, but buying offers a small financial advantage.

Grayson appeals to higher earners

Grayson County suits relocators with solid incomes seeking a more established market with higher property values and appreciation potential. If you're comparing affordability, check smaller neighbors like Gray or Hall County—you'll find significantly cheaper options nearby.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Grayson County

via IncomeByCounty

Grayson nearly matches national income

Grayson County's median household income of $70,455 comes within 5.8% of the U.S. median of $74,755. The county ranks among Texas's upper-middle-income areas, reflecting a more diversified employment base.

Above Texas median by 8.8%

At $70,455, Grayson County exceeds the state's median household income of $64,737. The county's per-capita income of $36,711 also surpasses the Texas average of $33,197, indicating stronger earnings across residents.

Regional income leader

Grayson County ($70,455) outearns most neighboring counties, trailing only Guadalupe County ($93,776). The per-capita income of $36,711 places Grayson solidly above peer counties like Gray ($30,893) and Hale ($24,606).

Home values rising alongside income

With a median home value of $228,300 and a rent-to-income ratio of 20.1%, housing remains affordable for Grayson households despite higher property values. The higher income supports homeownership opportunities that might strain lower-income counties.

Leverage income for long-term gains

Grayson County's above-average income creates an opportunity to accelerate wealth building through diversified investments and retirement accounts. Consider maximizing employer 401(k) matches and exploring real estate investment to capitalize on the county's steady economic position.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Grayson County

via CrimeByCounty

Grayson County Surpasses National Safety Standards

Grayson County earns an impressive safety score of 97.6, marking it as significantly safer than the average U.S. county. Its total crime rate of 1,507.3 per 100,000 is roughly 37% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This puts the county in a strong position for public safety nationwide.

Leading the Way in Texas Safety

The county outperforms the Texas state average safety score of 96.8. With a total crime rate of 1,507.3, Grayson County is much safer than the state average of 2,052.5. Twenty-five reporting agencies coordinate effectively to keep crime rates consistently low for local residents.

Stronger Safety Than Regional Neighbors

Grayson County enjoys a more secure environment than nearby Gregg County, which sees crime rates nearly double at 2,828.3. It also maintains a lower rate than Gray County's 2,336.4. These comparisons solidify Grayson's reputation as a regional leader in public safety.

Low Rates Across All Categories

Violent crime in Grayson County is remarkably low at 250.4, far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also suppressed, sitting at 1,256.9 compared to the national figure of 2,015.7. This dual-layer of safety offers residents peace of mind regarding both their persons and possessions.

Maintaining Security in Grayson County

While crime rates are low, proactive home security helps Grayson County maintain its high safety ranking. Smart home integration and motion-activated lighting are effective ways to protect your property. Community watch programs further enhance the work of the 25 local law enforcement agencies.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Grayson County

via HealthByCounty

Grayson beats national health averages

Grayson County residents live 74.4 years on average, falling slightly short of the national life expectancy of 78.9 years but remaining above many U.S. peers. The county's 20.5% poor or fair health rate sits notably below the national average of 18%, a rare bright spot in Texas health metrics.

Outperforms Texas on multiple fronts

Grayson County's 74.4-year life expectancy exceeds Texas's 74.3-year average, and its 18.5% uninsured rate sits below the state average of 19.8%. The county stands out as a health achiever within the state, with particularly strong mental health infrastructure.

Regional leader in healthcare access

Grayson outpaces neighboring Gray County (72.3 years) and Hale County (72.6 years) by nearly 2 full years in life expectancy. The county's exceptional 155 mental health providers per 100,000 residents far exceeds nearby counties like Gonzales (40) and Gray (43), making it a regional mental health resource.

Strong access, reasonable insurance rates

With 18.5% uninsured, Grayson is closer than most Texas counties to the state average, and its 42 primary care providers per 100,000 support robust preventive care. The county's standout mental health capacity ensures residents have access to counselors, therapists, and psychiatrists.

Build on Grayson's health advantages

Even in a relatively healthy county, insurance matters—18.5% of Grayson residents still lack coverage. If you're uninsured, visit Healthcare.gov or contact a local community health center to secure coverage and maintain your county's strong health trajectory.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Grayson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expansive Schools Serving North Texas

Grayson County manages a large-scale system of 59 public schools across 13 districts for 25,310 students. The diverse network includes 26 elementary schools and 16 high schools, providing deep coverage across the county.

Solid Performance and High Attainment

The county maintains a 92.1% graduation rate, which exceeds the national average of 87%. Although per-pupil spending of $6,916 is below the state average, the county nearly matches the state median for overall school quality.

Sherman and Denison Lead the Way

Sherman ISD is the largest district, enrolling 7,767 students across 15 schools, followed by Denison ISD with 4,868 students. Charter options are rare here, with only one school representing less than 2% of the county's total campuses.

Diverse Locales from City to Farm

Educational settings vary wildly, with 33 rural schools and 17 located in city centers. Sherman High School is the county's largest campus with 2,155 students, while the average school across the county serves roughly 436 students.

Move Near Grayson’s Top Schools

Whether you prefer the urban energy of Sherman or the quiet of a rural district like Gunter, Grayson County offers diverse options. Real estate near these high-performing schools remains a top priority for families moving to the region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Grayson County

via RiskByCounty

Grayson County faces elevated tornado risk

Grayson County's composite risk score of 80.31 ranks as relatively low but significantly exceeds the Texas state average of 49.00. The county's tornado score of 92.88 is exceptionally high, reflecting its position in a region prone to severe spring storms.

Among Texas's top tornado-prone counties

With a tornado risk score of 92.88, Grayson County ranks in the highest tier statewide for tornado exposure—among the most dangerous tornado counties in Texas. This elevated threat, combined with moderate flood risk (79.52), makes the county particularly vulnerable to spring weather systems.

Tornado risk exceeds neighboring areas

Grayson County's tornado score of 92.88 surpasses similar-sized neighboring counties and is second only to Gregg County (97.90) in the region. The county's position near the Oklahoma border puts it in a natural corridor for spring severe weather.

Tornadoes and floods are primary threats

Tornado risk (92.88) dominates Grayson County's hazard profile, with spring storms regularly producing dangerous conditions across the county. Flood risk (79.52) and wildfire risk (86.04) are also notable secondary threats that affect different areas and seasons.

Prepare for severe weather season

Grayson County residents should have a tornado safety plan, including a designated shelter area, weather alert system, and emergency supplies. Ensure your homeowners policy covers wind and hail damage from severe storms, and consider storm-resistant roofing materials and reinforced garage doors in high-risk areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Grayson County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate weather on the Red River

Grayson County features an annual average temperature of 63.6°F, keeping it warmer than the national median. It serves as a transition zone between the plains and the humid south.

Wetter and cooler than state averages

The county's 63.6°F average is slightly below the state norm of 65.5°F. However, its 44.3 inches of annual rain significantly exceeds the Texas state average of 31.9 inches.

High precipitation for North Texas

Grayson is wetter than many of its neighbors, receiving over 44 inches of rain annually. Its 73 days of extreme heat are fewer than the 100+ days seen in counties further south.

Hot summers and crisp, wet winters

Summers are hot with an 81.6°F average and 73 days reaching at least 90°F. Winters are cool and damp, averaging 45.1°F, though official annual snowfall data is currently unavailable.

Manage heavy rain and summer heat

With 44.3 inches of rain, residents should ensure proper property drainage and maintain reliable rain gear. Effective air conditioning is also needed to navigate the 73 days of extreme summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Grayson County

via SoilByCounty

Fine sandy loam Alfisols provide stability

Grayson County features Alfisols with a fine sandy loam texture. The 6.92 pH level is nearly neutral, sitting between the 6.5 national median and the 7.09 state average.

Excellent balance for soil workability

The mix consists of 37.4% sand, 28.6% silt, and 28.0% clay. This balanced distribution makes the soil easier to plow and manage compared to heavier clay-dominant regions.

Healthy water storage for local crops

The 1.35% organic matter content is lower than the 1.66% state average. Despite this, a 32.9 soil score and 0.135 in/in water capacity indicate solid potential for North Texas agriculture.

Superior drainage for plant health

The soil is well drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This allows water to move efficiently through the root zone, preventing the rot and aeration issues common in wetter soils.

Perfect for berries in zone 8a

Zone 8a conditions and well-drained loam are ideal for blackberries, blueberries, and roses. Grab your shovel and start a backyard patch this season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Grayson County

via LawnByCounty

A National Leader in Lawn Ease

Grayson County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 50.9, beating both the state average and the national median. This makes it one of the most forgiving places in Texas to maintain a healthy, green yard.

Plentiful Rain and Balanced Heat

Annual precipitation of 44.3 inches provides nearly perfect natural irrigation for most grass types. With only 73 extreme heat days, the climate allows for a vigorous growing season without the extreme evaporation found further south.

Perfect pH for Lush Growth

The fine sandy loam soil features an ideal pH of 6.92, ensuring your grass can easily access all available nutrients. Its well-drained nature combined with 28.0% clay provides a great balance of drainage and moisture retention.

Strong Resilience Against Dry Spells

The county has seen only 12 weeks of drought in the past year, and severe drought levels currently sit at 0%. This consistency allows for a more relaxed watering schedule compared to the rest of the state.

Maximize the Long Growing Season

Warm-season grasses like Zoysia or Bermuda thrive here, though the 8a zone can also support some transitional blends. Plan your major lawn work for late March, once the threat of the March 14 frost has passed.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grayson County's county score?
Grayson County, Texas has a composite county score of 32.8 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 Grayson County rank among counties in Texas?
Grayson County ranks #191 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 Grayson County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Grayson County is $2,953, with an effective tax rate of 1.29%. This earns Grayson County a tax score of 21.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Grayson County?
The median household income in Grayson County, Texas is $70,455 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Grayson County earns an income score of 67.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Grayson County, Texas a good place to live?
Grayson County scores 32.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #191 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Grayson 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 Grayson 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.