countyscore
48.8
County Score
Disaster Risk 87.2Safety 69.5Schools 68.7

County Report Card

About Hamilton County, Texas

Hamilton County Nears National Median Performance

Hamilton County earns a composite score of 47.4, placing it just below the national median of 50.0. While it trails the middle of the pack nationally, it remains a competitive option for those prioritizing safety and stability.

Outperforming the Texas Average

With a score of 47.4, Hamilton County sits well above the Texas state average of 41.9. This indicates a higher general quality of life compared to many of its regional neighbors.

Exceptional Safety and Environmental Stability

The county excels with a risk score of 87.2 and a safety score of 69.5, suggesting a secure environment. Local schools also perform strongly with a score of 68.7, supported by a median home value of $124,800.

Addressing Water Scarcity and Tax Burdens

The water score sits at a low 5.8, indicating significant concerns regarding resource availability. Additionally, a tax score of 11.3 reflects an effective tax rate of 1.537%, which is relatively high for the area.

A Haven for Safety-Conscious Families

Hamilton County is best suited for families who value safe neighborhoods and strong local schools over low property taxes. Its blend of affordability and security makes it a solid choice for those seeking a stable rural lifestyle.

204060801002157.369.525.268.728.687.25.838.9Tax21Cost57.3Safety69.5Health25.2Schools68.7Income28.6Risk87.2Water5.8Weather38.948.8/100
This county
National avg
3 above average5 below average

Hamilton County DNA

Foverall

How Hamilton County compares to the national average across nine baseline dimensions

Hamilton County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (87.2/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (5.8/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
21-31
Cost
57.3+9.299999999999997
Safety
69.5+14.5
Health
25.2-24.8
Schools
68.7+14.700000000000003
Income
28.6-22.4
Risk
87.2+40.2
Water
5.8-52.2
Weather
38.9-17.1
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Hamilton County?

Many homeowners in Hamilton County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$147,700

National median: $185,300

Median Rent

$885/mo

National median: $877/mo

Income Needed (home)

$147,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$35,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.5x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $58,219/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

24.0

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Deep Dives

Hamilton County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Hamilton County

via TaxByCounty

Hamilton's taxes run below national median

At 1.537%, Hamilton County's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 1.80%, placing it in the lower half of American counties. The median property tax here is $1,918—about 29% less than the national median of $2,690—despite comparable home values to the state average.

Above average among Texas counties

Hamilton County ranks in the upper half of Texas counties with an effective rate of 1.537%, compared to the state average of 1.276%. This means local property owners here pay roughly 20% more in effective tax rate than their counterparts in lower-taxing Texas counties.

Mid-range tax burden for Central Texas

Hamilton's 1.537% rate falls between nearby Hardeman County (1.183%) and Hansford County (1.639%). With a median home value of $124,800, Hamilton homeowners typically pay less in absolute dollars than those in the faster-appreciating regions to the east.

A $1,918 annual bill for median homes

The median home in Hamilton County valued at $124,800 generates an annual property tax bill of $1,918. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $2,167, making it substantially lower than what national homeowners pay despite Texas's reputation for low taxes.

Challenge your assessment if it feels high

Many Texas homeowners are overassessed, and Hamilton County is no exception—a professional appraisal review could potentially lower your taxable value. The county appraisal process allows homeowners to formally protest their assessed value if they believe it exceeds fair market value.

Income & Jobs in Hamilton County

via IncomeByCounty

Hamilton County trails national income

Median household income in Hamilton County is $55,339, nearly $19,400 below the U.S. median of $74,755. This puts Hamilton County in the lower half nationally, though the county's per capita income of $36,865 exceeds Texas's state average of $33,197.

Below average for Texas

Hamilton County's $55,339 median household income falls short of Texas's state average of $64,737 by about $9,400. The county ranks in the lower third among Texas's 254 counties, indicating limited high-wage employment opportunities locally.

Less prosperous than nearby counties

Hamilton County's median income trails nearby Hardeman County ($61,179) and Hansford County ($68,299) by significant margins. Only Haskell County ($54,044) in this region earns less, underscoring Hamilton's relative economic challenge.

Affordable housing offsets modest wages

With a median home value of $124,800 and rent-to-income ratio of 18.4%, Hamilton County offers reasonable housing affordability for its income level. This favorable ratio suggests households can comfortably cover housing costs while maintaining room for savings and other expenses.

Build financial resilience now

Hamilton County residents earning below the state average should prioritize emergency savings and explore low-cost investment options like employer 401(k)s or index funds. With housing costs manageable at 18.4% of income, households have opportunity to allocate 10-15% toward long-term wealth building.

Safety in Hamilton County

via CrimeByCounty

Hamilton County Outperforms National Safety Standards

Hamilton County reports a total crime rate of 715.7 per 100,000 residents, which is nearly 70% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This impressive safety profile earns the county an exceptional safety score of 98.9 out of 100.

A Top-Tier Performer in Texas

With a safety score of 98.9, Hamilton County ranks significantly higher than the Texas state average of 96.8. Its total crime rate is also far below the statewide average of 2,052.5 per 100,000 people.

Safer than Regional Neighbors

Hamilton County is notably safer than neighboring Hardin County, which has a total crime rate of 979.2 per 100,000. Local law enforcement maintains a strong track record of safety compared to other counties in the Central Texas region.

Property Crime Drives Local Incidents

Property crime accounts for the majority of local offenses at 545.9 per 100,000, while violent crime remains low at 169.8. This violent crime rate is less than half the national average of 369.8, indicating a low risk for personal harm.

Maintaining a Secure Hamilton County Home

While crime rates are low, 545.9 property crimes per 100,000 still suggest that basic security measures are worthwhile. Residents should focus on property protection by installing motion-activated lighting and ensuring all outbuildings remain locked.

Weather & Climate in Hamilton County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Central Texas warmth and sun

Hamilton County's 64.5°F average annual temperature is substantially higher than the national median. The climate is characterized by long, hot summers and relatively short, mild winters.

A near-perfect match for Texas averages

With an average temperature of 64.5°F, Hamilton County sits just below the state average of 65.5°F. Its 36.2 inches of annual rainfall slightly exceeds the state average of 31.9 inches.

Typical conditions for the Heart of Texas

Hamilton County shares the heat and moisture patterns of its neighbors, experiencing 92 extreme heat days per year. It is wetter than the counties to the west, providing more consistent moisture for the local landscape.

Consistent heat and mild winter nights

July temperatures average 83.1°F, part of a summer season that sees 92 days reach over 90°F. Winters are manageable with a January average of 45.1°F, though specific snowfall data for the county is currently unavailable.

Plan for three months of heat

With 92 days of extreme heat, energy-efficient cooling is a primary concern for residents. Outdoor activities should be planned for the mild winter and spring, where temperatures average between 46.6°F and 64°F.

Soil Quality in Hamilton County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Mollisols Define the Local Landscape

Hamilton County features Mollisols with a pH of 7.45, which is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This clay loam soil provides a sturdy, mineral-rich foundation for the region's diverse plant life.

A Versatile Clay Loam Blend

The soil contains 39.0% sand, 32.7% silt, and 27.8% clay. This balanced composition offers excellent workability while the clay content ensures the ground retains essential nutrients for crops.

Organic Matter Exceeds State Averages

At 2.22%, the organic matter content sits comfortably above the Texas average of 1.66% and the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.135 in/in matches the state trend, offering reliable growing potential.

Well-Drained Soils Support Steady Growth

These soils are well-drained and belong to hydrologic group B. This classification indicates moderate infiltration rates, which helps minimize surface runoff during heavy Central Texas rains.

Thriving Gardens in Zone 8b

Hamilton's 33.7 soil score and 8b hardiness zone are perfect for heat-tolerant crops like okra and peppers. Start your garden today to take advantage of this region's superior fertility.

Lawn Care in Hamilton County

via LawnByCounty

A Fair Fighting Chance for Local Lawns

Hamilton County earns a lawn difficulty score of 43.2, which is significantly higher than the Texas state average of 31.7. While this 8b hardiness zone is more hospitable than many neighboring areas, it still falls slightly below the national median score of 50.0.

Favorable Rainfall Meets Long Growing Seasons

The county receives 36.2 inches of annual precipitation, placing it right in the ideal range for healthy turf growth. However, 92 extreme heat days and 5,955 growing degree days mean your mowing schedule remains intense from the last frost in late March through early November.

Managing Alkaline Clay Loam

The soil features a pH of 7.45, which is more alkaline than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for many grass types. This well-drained clay loam consists of 27.8% clay and 39.0% sand, requiring organic matter amendments to improve nutrient availability.

Recent Dry Spells Demand Smart Watering

With 13 weeks spent in drought over the past year, 100% of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry. Focus on deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to encourage root depth and minimize evaporation losses.

Seeding for Success in Zone 8b

Bermuda and Zoysia are excellent choices for this climate, providing the heat tolerance needed for those 90-degree days. Aim to establish new sod or seed after the final frost on March 24 to maximize the long growing season ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hamilton County's county score?
Hamilton County, Texas has a composite county score of 48.8 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 Hamilton County rank among counties in Texas?
Hamilton County ranks #70 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 Hamilton County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Hamilton County is $1,863, with an effective tax rate of 1.26%. This earns Hamilton County a tax score of 21/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hamilton County?
The median household income in Hamilton County, Texas is $58,219 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hamilton County earns an income score of 28.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hamilton County, Texas a good place to live?
Hamilton County scores 48.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #70 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Hamilton 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 Hamilton County with other counties side by side.
By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.