53.5
County Score
Cost of Living 85.6Disaster Risk 82.9Property Tax 78

County Report Card

About Greer County, Oklahoma

Better Than the National Median

Greer County earns a composite score of 53.5, placing it above the national median of 50.0. This indicates a high level of overall livability compared to typical American counties.

Outperforming Oklahoma Peers

At 53.5, Greer County comfortably beats the state average of 43.0. It stands as a high-performing outlier in the Oklahoma panhandle and southwestern region.

Exceptional Affordability and Low Risk

A Cost Score of 85.6 is driven by very low rents averaging $624 per month. Residents also benefit from a high Risk Score of 82.9, signaling safety from many natural disasters.

Educational and Health Limitations

The county faces hurdles in its School Score (27.9) and Health Score (25.7). Additionally, the Water Score of 4.2 suggests that local infrastructure requires modernization.

A Budget-Friendly Retirement Spot

Greer County is an excellent fit for retirees or remote workers looking to minimize housing costs and environmental risks. It offers extreme financial predictability for those who do not require proximity to top-tier school districts.

Score breakdown

Tax78Cost85.6Safety48.4Health25.7Schools27.9Income39.6Risk82.9Water4.2Weather52.7
🏛78
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠85.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼39.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡48.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
25.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓27.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
82.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧4.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤52.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨31.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱37.3
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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Deep Dives

Greer County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Greer County

via TaxByCounty

Greer County taxes rank among America's lowest

Greer County's effective tax rate of 0.570% is well below the national median, with a median property tax of just $590. This represents only 22% of the national median tax of $2,690, placing Greer among the nation's most tax-friendly counties.

Below Oklahoma's average on both measures

Greer County's 0.570% rate is lower than Oklahoma's 0.652% state average, and its median tax of $590 trails the state median of $959. The county offers homeowners a modest tax burden relative to state norms.

Among the region's lowest-tax counties

Greer's 0.570% rate is competitive with Garvin (0.566%) and considerably lower than Grady (0.703%) and Grant (0.604%). The median home value of $103,600 keeps annual tax bills manageable in this southwestern cluster.

Median tax bill runs just $590 yearly

A median Greer County home worth $103,600 incurs an estimated annual property tax of $590—or $741 including mortgage taxes. At approximately $49 per month, homeowners here enjoy relatively low annual tax obligations.

Verify your property's assessed value

Oklahoma assessments sometimes overestimate property values, resulting in unnecessary tax payments even in lower-tax counties. Greer County homeowners should review their assessments and file an appeal if the valuation doesn't align with local market conditions.

Cost of Living in Greer County

via CostByCounty

Greer offers exceptional rental affordability

Greer County's rent-to-income ratio of just 12.4% ranks well below the national average of 17.0%, delivering substantial savings for renters nationwide. The median monthly rent of $624—among Oklahoma's lowest—combined with a $60,183 median income creates genuine affordability that benefits renters at all income levels.

Oklahoma's lowest rent burden county

Greer County's 12.4% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in Oklahoma, significantly undercutting the state average of 17.0% and the state's median rent of $814. This combination of low rents and reasonable incomes makes Greer a standout affordability destination within the state.

Lowest rents in entire regional cluster

Greer County's $624 median rent substantially undercuts all neighboring counties—Garvin ($828), Grant ($856), and Harmon ($663)—while maintaining competitive income levels. The county delivers the region's clearest path to affordable housing, particularly for cost-conscious renters.

Low rents, reasonable ownership costs

Greer County renters pay just $624 monthly (12.4% of their $60,183 income), while homeowners allocate $654 monthly (13.0%) on median home values of $103,600. Both renters and owners benefit from the county's affordability profile, making it accessible across housing typologies.

Greer is a renter's paradise

Budget-conscious renters relocating from coastal or metro areas will find Greer County's $624 monthly rent transformative—often saving $400-600 monthly versus national averages. This county delivers the lowest housing cost burden in Oklahoma while maintaining dignified living standards, making it ideal for those prioritizing affordability.

Income & Jobs in Greer County

via IncomeByCounty

Greer income trails U.S. median

Greer County's median household income of $60,183 falls 19.5% below the national median of $74,755. Like most rural Oklahoma counties, Greer reflects the income challenges of agricultural and small-business-dependent economies.

Slightly above Oklahoma average

Greer County's $60,183 income exceeds Oklahoma's state average of $58,273 by $1,910, placing it near the state midpoint. The county performs adequately by statewide standards despite national headwinds.

Mid-tier performer regionally

Greer County ($60,183) ranks between Grant County ($61,824) to the northeast and Harmon County ($54,286) to the north. It outearns most struggling western Oklahoma counties, including Haskell ($49,930) and Hughes ($47,923).

Exceptionally low rent burden

Greer County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio in this analysis at 12.4%—just 41% of the affordability threshold. With a median home value of $103,600 and strong housing affordability, households can comfortably build equity and stability.

Exceptional housing affordability enables saving

Greer County's 12.4% rent-to-income ratio is the best in the region, freeing up significant household resources for investment. Consider maximizing tax-advantaged retirement accounts and establishing diverse investment portfolios to build lasting wealth.

Safety in Greer County

via CrimeByCounty

Greer County Among the Nation's Safest

Greer County boasts a high safety score of 98.2, making it a standout for residential security. Its total crime rate of 1157.1 per 100,000 is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

A Safety Leader in Oklahoma

The county is far safer than the Oklahoma average, with a crime rate of 1157.1 versus the state's 2647.7. Its safety score of 98.2 significantly beats the statewide score of 95.8.

Consistent Safety with West Oklahoma Neighbors

Greer County shares a nearly identical safety profile with neighboring Harmon County, which has a crime rate of 1160.4. Both counties offer a high level of security for local families.

Balanced Risks in Greer County

Greer reports 343.5 violent crimes per 100,000, which is close to the national average. However, its property crime rate of 813.6 is exceptionally low, representing a fraction of the national 2,015.7 average.

Smart Security for Your Household

Since violent crime rates are closer to average than property rates, personal safety awareness is key. Ensure your home entry points are secure and well-lit at night.

Health in Greer County

via HealthByCounty

Greer falls short on national health measures

Greer County's 73.2-year life expectancy is 3.6 years below the U.S. average of 76.8 years. Almost 1 in 4 residents (23.8%) report poor or fair health, exceeding the national benchmark.

Slightly above Oklahoma baseline

Greer County's 73.2-year life expectancy outpaces Oklahoma's state average of 72.7 years by a small margin. However, its 23.8% poor/fair health rate signals significant health burdens within the county.

Mixed performance in regional context

Greer County's 73.2-year life expectancy trails Grady County (74.1 years) but exceeds Garvin (70.5 years). Its 23.8% poor/fair health rate is among the highest in the peer group, matching Grant County's burden.

Mental health services stand out

Greer County has exceptional mental health provider availability at 348 per 100K—more than double most neighboring counties. However, primary care access is tight with only 18 providers per 100K, and 12.4% of residents lack health insurance.

Bridge the coverage gap in Greer

Though Greer's uninsured rate (12.4%) is lower than state average, 1 in 8 residents still lack coverage. Explore Oklahoma's marketplace and Medicaid to ensure access to the primary care that complements the county's strong mental health services.

Schools in Greer County

via SchoolsByCounty

Balanced Education Infrastructure in Greer

Greer County provides education through seven public schools, including three elementary, one middle, and three high schools. Three districts serve a total of 928 students across the county. This structure ensures that students have clear pathways from primary education through graduation.

Meeting National Graduation Benchmarks

Greer County matches the national graduation rate of 87.0%, which is nearly three points higher than the state average. The county spends $6,345 per pupil, closely aligning with the Oklahoma average of $6,520. The overall school score of 50.5 places the county slightly above the state and national medians.

Mangum Leads the Local Districts

The Mangum district is the largest, overseeing four schools and 644 students. Granite follows with 236 students across two schools, while the Lakeside School serves a smaller niche population. No charter schools operate within the county, though one alternative school is available.

Town Centers and Rural Outposts

The county features a mix of four town-based schools and three rural campuses, with an average enrollment of 133 students. Edison ES in Mangum is the largest school with 239 students, while Granite HS serves just 78. This configuration offers a classic town-and-country school experience for local families.

Homes Near Reliable Local Schools

Greer County offers a steady academic environment with graduation rates that meet national standards. Potential homebuyers should look at the Mangum and Granite areas to find residence near established community schools. Make school quality a cornerstone of your relocation plan in Southwest Oklahoma.

Disaster Risk in Greer County

via RiskByCounty

Greer among the nation's safest

With a composite risk score of just 17.08, Greer County ranks in the very low category and sits far below the national average for natural disaster exposure. Only wildfire risk (68.29) climbs to moderate levels; all other hazards present minimal threat to residents.

Second-safest county in Oklahoma

Greer's 17.08 score sits dramatically below the state average of 55.47, placing it as one of Oklahoma's lowest-risk counties. This exceptional safety profile reflects the panhandle's distance from major tornado and earthquake zones.

Greer safest in its region

Greer's 17.08 score is safer than Garvin (61.70) to the east and nearly matches neighboring Harmon County (10.21) to the north. The southwestern panhandle emerges as Oklahoma's most secure region for natural disaster exposure.

Wildfire only meaningful hazard

Greer's wildfire risk of 68.29 is its sole notable exposure; tornado risk (52.96), earthquake (26.81), flood (5.95), and hurricane (14.77) all remain minimal. The county's aridity and sparse vegetation actually moderate some wildfire potential despite the regional score.

Basic insurance is typically adequate

Greer's exceptionally low risk profile means standard homeowners coverage provides sufficient protection for most residents. Focus preparedness on routine maintenance and basic wildfire mitigation rather than extensive protective upgrades.

Weather & Climate in Greer County

via WeatherByCounty

A representative Oklahoma climate

Greer County matches the state average closely with a 60.6°F annual temperature. However, its 27.0 inches of precipitation is much lower than the national median, indicating a semi-arid influence.

Aligning with the state average

Greer’s annual average of 60.6°F is almost identical to the Oklahoma statewide average of 60.4°F. This makes it a representative baseline for the state's general climate profile.

Lower rainfall than the interior

Greer is much drier than central Oklahoma counties, receiving only 27.0 inches of rain annually. It experiences 92 days of extreme heat, which is slightly higher than the central state average.

Three months of extreme heat

Summer peaks with 92 days over 90°F and an 82.6°F July average. Winters are generally dry and mild, with only 4.3 inches of snow and a 40.2°F average temperature.

Landscaping for a drier climate

Xeriscaping is a smart choice for Greer residents due to the low 27-inch annual rainfall. Cooling systems must be robust enough to handle over three months of 90-degree days.

Soil Quality in Greer County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Tendencies in Greer County

Greer County soils lean alkaline with an average pH of 6.86, notably higher than the state average of 6.06. This places the county above the national median pH of 6.5, which can influence how plants take up specific nutrients. The overall soil score of 31.9 reflects a more challenging environment than the state average of 35.3.

A Gritty, Clay-Rich Texture

The soil contains 42.9% sand and 19.6% clay, providing a texture that is both gritty and capable of firming up when wet. Silt makes up 30.0% of the profile, rounding out a composition that can be tough to work when dry. This mix requires careful timing for tilling to avoid creating hard clods.

Modest Organic Matter and Water Storage

Organic matter is relatively low at 1.24%, well below the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.132 in/in also trails the state average of 0.144 in/in. These factors mean the soil dries out faster and may require more frequent fertilization or mulching to support healthy growth.

Slow Drainage and High Surface Runoff

As a member of Hydrologic Group D, Greer County soil has a very slow infiltration rate. Rainfall often stays on the surface, creating a risk of erosion on sloped land. Farmers and gardeners should implement contouring or rain gardens to capture water before it leaves the site.

Resilient Growing in Zone 7b

The 7b climate supports drought-tolerant species and native grasses that handle the alkaline pH well. Successful gardeners often focus on Mediterranean herbs or native wildflowers that thrive in leaner, higher-pH soils. Adding organic compost can help bridge the fertility gap for more demanding vegetables.

Lawn Care in Greer County

via LawnByCounty

Significant Challenges for Greer County Turfs

Greer County presents a difficult environment for lawn care with a score of 37.3, well below the state average of 46.1. This Zone 7b county is significantly more challenging than the national median of 50.0 due to harsh climatic pressures. Homeowners must be strategic to maintain a healthy lawn in these conditions.

Arid Conditions and Extreme Summer Heat

With only 27.0 inches of annual precipitation, the county falls more than 10 inches short of the state average of 37.2. This moisture deficit is compounded by 92 extreme heat days over 90°F annually. Lawns here face 5,134 growing degree days, creating high evapotranspiration rates that demand supplemental irrigation.

Alkaline Leaning Soil with High Sand Content

Soil pH is healthy at 6.86, sitting near the upper end of the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The texture consists of 19.6% clay and 42.9% sand, which may lead to rapid water loss in the root zone. While drainage data is not fully recorded, the high sand content suggests that organic mulch is vital for water retention.

Severe Drought Dominates the Landscape

Current conditions are critical, with 86.7% of the county experiencing severe drought or worse. Greer County has spent 28 weeks in drought over the past year, the highest among its neighbors. Strict water conservation and the use of drought-tolerant species are essential for any landscaping success.

Choosing Drought-Tolerant Species for Zone 7b

Buffalograss and Bermuda are the most resilient options for this dry, hot environment. Wait until the threat of frost passes on April 8 to begin spring planting or sodding. Aim to have your lawn deeply rooted by the time the first fall frost hits on November 2.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greer County's county score?
Greer County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 53.5 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 Greer County rank among counties in Oklahoma?
Greer County ranks #12 among all counties in Oklahoma 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 Greer County, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Greer County is $590, with an effective tax rate of 0.57%. This earns Greer County a tax score of 78/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Greer County?
The median household income in Greer County, Oklahoma is $60,183 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Greer County earns an income score of 39.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Greer County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Greer County scores 53.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Oklahoma. The best way to evaluate Greer 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 Greer County with other counties side by side.