countyscore
47.4
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.

Score breakdown

Tax11.3Cost58.1Safety69.5Health25.2Schools68.7Income25.7Risk87.2Water5.8Weather38.9
🏛11.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠58.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼25.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡69.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤25.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡87.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧5.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤38.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱43.2
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

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38.8
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Deep Dives

Hamilton County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 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.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hamilton County

via CostByCounty

Hamilton County rents are a bargain

At 18.4%, Hamilton County's rent-to-income ratio sits just above the Texas state average of 18.1%, but significantly below the national average of about 30%. Renters here spend roughly one-fifth of their income on housing, making it more affordable than most of the country.

Middle of the pack in Texas

Hamilton County ranks in the affordable-to-moderate range among Texas's 254 counties, with housing costs reasonable but not exceptional. The median rent of $847 runs $116 cheaper than the state average, reflecting the county's rural character.

Cheaper than Harrison, pricier than Hardeman

Hamilton County's $847 median rent sits between neighboring Harrison County at $977 and Hardeman County at $688. Buyers will find median home values here at $124,800, a sweet spot between these nearby counties.

Where does the income go?

With a median household income of $55,339, Hamilton County residents spend roughly 18.4% on rent or 16% on mortgage payments. This leaves most households with manageable housing costs and room for other expenses.

Consider Hamilton for stability

If you're weighing rural Texas counties, Hamilton offers solid affordability without extreme isolation—rent is lower than state average and homeownership is accessible at under $125,000 median value. Compare these numbers to neighboring counties to find your best fit.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

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.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

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.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hamilton County

via HealthByCounty

Hamilton's life expectancy matches Texas average

At 74.3 years, Hamilton County residents live as long as the Texas average but about 5.5 years less than the U.S. average of 79.8 years. One in five residents (21.2%) report poor or fair health, slightly below the national rate of 21.7%, suggesting baseline health challenges across the county.

Middle of the pack for Texas health

Hamilton County ranks at the state average for life expectancy at 74.3 years, placing it squarely in Texas's middle tier for longevity. Its uninsured rate of 22.3% exceeds Texas's state average of 19.8%, meaning more residents lack coverage here than typical.

Better access to mental health care

Hamilton County offers strong mental health provider access at 104 per 100,000 residents, outpacing nearby Hardeman County (115 per 100K) and matching state demand. Primary care availability at 97 per 100,000 is solid and keeps residents closer to essential preventive services than some regional neighbors.

One in five residents uninsured

With 22.3% of the population uninsured, Hamilton County residents face barriers to routine care and preventive services. This gap widens when you consider the county's 97 primary care providers per 100,000 are spread across a population where nearly a quarter lack insurance entirely.

Explore coverage options now

If you're among the 22.3% of Hamilton County residents without health insurance, 2025 enrollment is open. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local health department to find plans that fit your budget and medical needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hamilton County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Educational Foundation

Hamilton County maintains a compact education infrastructure with six total public schools serving 1,769 students. The landscape consists of two elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools distributed across three local districts.

High Graduation Rates Outpace State Averages

The county achieves a strong 92.4% graduation rate, exceeding both the Texas average of 91.6% and the national mark of 87%. While per-pupil spending of $8,121 sits below the national average of $13,000, the county's school score of 57.2 remains above the state baseline.

Hamilton ISD Leads Local Enrollment

Hamilton ISD is the largest provider in the area, managing three schools and 817 students. Hico ISD follows with 623 students, while the county currently operates no charter school alternatives.

A Blend of Town and Rural Settings

Education here is evenly split between town and rural locales, with an average school size of 295 students. Ann Whitney Elementary serves as the largest campus with 397 students, while Hamilton High School maintains a more intimate environment of 236 students.

Root Your Family in Quality Schools

With graduation rates outperforming the state, Hamilton County offers a stable environment for families prioritizing academic success. Explore local homes to find a residence near these high-performing, small-town campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hamilton County

via RiskByCounty

Hamilton County's low natural disaster risk

Hamilton County's composite risk score of 12.85 places it well below the national average, earning a Very Low rating for natural disaster exposure. This makes it one of Texas's safer counties when measuring combined hazard risk across floods, wildfires, tornadoes, earthquakes, and hurricanes.

Among Texas's safest counties

Hamilton County ranks in the lowest tier statewide with a composite risk score of 12.85, compared to Texas's 49.00 state average. This 74% lower risk score reflects minimal exposure to major disaster types across the region.

Safer than Comanche, similar to Milam

Hamilton County's risk profile outperforms most neighboring counties in Central Texas. Its Very Low rating contrasts sharply with higher-risk areas to the south and east, positioning it among the state's most resilient communities.

Wildfire and tornado exposure remain

Though overall risk is low, Hamilton County faces meaningful wildfire exposure at 84.86—well above state average—and moderate tornado risk at 46.60. Residents should still prepare for fire season and severe weather despite the county's strong composite rating.

Wildfire insurance protects your property

Even in low-risk counties, wildfire and tornado coverage gaps expose homeowners to preventable losses. Review your homeowner's policy to ensure adequate wildfire and wind coverage, and maintain defensible space around your property.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

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.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

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.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

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.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hamilton County's county score?
Hamilton County, Texas has a composite county score of 47.4 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 Hamilton County rank among counties in Texas?
Hamilton County ranks #85 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 $1,918, with an effective tax rate of 1.54%. This earns Hamilton County a tax score of 11.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hamilton County?
The median household income in Hamilton County, Texas is $55,339 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hamilton County earns an income score of 25.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hamilton County, Texas a good place to live?
Hamilton County scores 47.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #85 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.

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.