countyscore
41.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 72.7Safety 57.4Water Quality 49

County Report Card

About Hardin County, Texas

Trailing the National Median Score

Hardin County's composite score of 41.4 falls below the national median of 50.0. This suggests there are areas of development needed to reach national standards for livability.

Matching the Texas State Average

At 41.4, Hardin County aligns closely with the Texas state average of 41.9. It represents a typical Texas living experience in terms of overall costs and services.

High Incomes and Strong Safety

The county features a robust income score of 72.7, with a median household income of $72,532. Safety also remains a priority, reflected in a respectable safety score of 57.4.

Vulnerability to Environmental Risks

A low risk score of 30.4 indicates the county faces higher-than-average threats from natural disasters. Health scores also lag at 32.3, suggesting a need for better medical infrastructure.

A Choice for High-Earning Workers

Hardin County is best for established professionals who value higher wages and decent safety. It attracts those who are comfortable managing higher environmental risks for the sake of economic opportunity.

2040608010027.732.857.432.348.572.730.44925.3Tax27.7Cost32.8Safety57.4Health32.3Schools48.5Income72.7Risk30.4Water49Weather25.341.4/100
This county
National avg
1 above average5 below average

Hardin County DNA

Foverall

How Hardin County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Hardin County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Weather & Climate (25.3/100), though Income (72.7/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
27.7-24.3
Cost
32.8-15.200000000000003
Safety
57.4
Health
32.3-17.700000000000003
Schools
48.5
Income
72.7+21.700000000000003
Risk
30.4-16.6
Water
49-9
Weather
25.3-30.7
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Think property taxes are too high in Hardin County?

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

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$188,200

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,011/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$188,200/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$40,440/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.6x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $72,532/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

12.3

per 100K

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

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Hardin County with Cross County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Cross County
Arkansas
Median income: $47,012
41.4
Bonneville County
Idaho
Median income: $76,646
41.4
St. Joseph County
Indiana
Median income: $64,885
41.4
Cheyenne County
Nebraska
Median income: $57,594
41.4
Buncombe County
North Carolina
Median income: $70,578
41.4
Burke County
North Carolina
Median income: $55,684
41.4
Athens County
Ohio
Median income: $53,837
41.4
Custer County
Oklahoma
Median income: $57,562
41.4

Nearby counties

Orange County
Texas
31.3
Jefferson County
Texas
19.8
Liberty County
Texas
30.4
Jasper County
Texas
40.5
Tyler County
Texas
41.3
Polk County
Texas
32.8
Chambers County
Texas
32.1
Newton County
Texas
47.7

Deep Dives

Hardin County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Hardin County

via TaxByCounty

Hardin's taxes fall well below national average

Hardin County's effective tax rate of 1.155% is among the lowest in the nation, significantly below the national median of 1.80%. The median property tax of $2,174 remains nearly 19% below the national median of $2,690, despite homes valued 33% below the national norm.

Modestly below Texas's statewide average

Hardin County's 1.155% effective rate edges slightly below the Texas average of 1.276%, positioning it among the state's more tax-friendly counties. This below-average rate helps offset the county's relatively higher median home values for a rural Texas area.

Lower taxes than most peers in east Texas

Hardin's 1.155% rate undercuts Harrison County's 1.016%... actually, Harrison County is slightly lower. Hardin still beats most other nearby counties and offers competitive rates for the eastern Texas region.

Annual bill of $2,174 for median properties

A median Hardin County home worth $188,200 carries an annual property tax of $2,174. With mortgage considerations, the effective cost rises to $2,662, remaining below both the state median of $2,193 and national median of $2,690.

Verify your home's assessed value today

Hardin County homeowners should request their property's appraisal and compare it to recent sales of similar homes in the area. If your assessed value appears inflated, filing a formal protest with the appraisal district is free and straightforward.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hardin County

via CostByCounty

Hardin County stays below the danger zone

Hardin County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% falls below the Texas state average of 18.1% and well below the national average of roughly 30%. This Southeast Texas county maintains healthy housing affordability despite above-average home values.

Upper-middle tier affordability in Texas

Hardin County ranks solidly in the middle-to-upper range of Texas counties for affordability, with a 16.7% rent-to-income ratio. While not the cheapest, it balances reasonable housing costs with stronger home values and incomes.

Premium pricing for Southeast Texas

Hardin County's $1,011 median rent and $188,200 home values are higher than inland counties but typical for Southeast Texas near Houston's influence. This reflects the region's stronger economy and property values.

Higher income supports higher housing

With a median household income of $72,532, Hardin County residents spend 16.7% on rent or roughly 15.2% on mortgage payments. The higher incomes here support the elevated housing costs while maintaining affordability.

Hardin offers Southeast Texas access

If you're seeking proximity to Houston's job market without downtown prices, Hardin County delivers—median rent at $1,011 and homes around $188,000 with strong local incomes. Compare to Harris County to see the savings from moving further from the urban core.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hardin County

via IncomeByCounty

Hardin nears national household income

Hardin County's median household income of $72,532 sits just $2,223 below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it firmly in the upper-middle range nationally. Per capita income of $36,761 also exceeds Texas's state average of $33,197.

Above-average earner in Texas

Hardin County's $72,532 median household income surpasses Texas's state average of $64,737 by nearly $7,800, ranking it in the upper third of Texas counties. This reflects stronger-than-average employment and wage opportunities.

Strong performer regionally

Hardin County's median income of $72,532 exceeds most neighbors, trailing only Hartley County ($82,122) and matching Harris County ($73,104). The county outearns Hamilton, Hardeman, Harrison, and Haskell counties by significant margins.

Balanced income and housing costs

Hardin County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% is reasonable, though slightly elevated compared to neighbors like Hansford (13.5%) and Hardeman (13.5%). With a median home value of $188,200 and strong household income, residents maintain solid financial stability.

Invest for long-term prosperity

Hardin County's above-average income and manageable housing costs position residents well for wealth accumulation. Focus on maximizing retirement contributions, diversifying investments beyond real estate, and exploring employer stock purchase plans to accelerate financial growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hardin County

via CrimeByCounty

Hardin County Stays Safe and Secure

Hardin County reports a total crime rate of 979.2 per 100,000 residents, which is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This reliable safety record produces a strong safety score of 98.5.

Outperforming the Texas Average

Hardin County’s safety score of 98.5 exceeds the Texas state average of 96.8. Local law enforcement maintains a total crime rate that is significantly lower than the statewide average of 2,052.5.

Regional Safety in Southeast Texas

Hardin County offers a much safer environment than neighboring Harris County, which reports a crime rate of 1,594.9. This makes Hardin one of the more secure communities in its immediate region.

Breakdown of Local Crime Statistics

Property crimes occur at a rate of 818.4, while violent crimes are limited to 160.8 per 100,000. Both metrics remain well below national averages, ensuring residents face relatively low risks in their daily lives.

Visible Security for Hardin Homeowners

With 11 reporting agencies active in the area, police presence is high. Residents can further reduce the property crime rate of 818.4 by utilizing home security systems and keeping vehicle doors locked.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Hardin County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Multi-District Educational Hub

Hardin County features a robust system of 21 public schools serving 10,767 students. These campuses are spread across four districts and include nine elementary schools and five high schools.

Strong Graduation on a Lean Budget

The county maintains a high 94.5% graduation rate, which is notably higher than the state's 91.6% average. However, per-pupil spending is just $5,950, trailing the state average and the national $13,000 benchmark.

Lumberton ISD Anchors the Region

Lumberton ISD is the largest district, hosting 4,195 students across six schools. Silsbee ISD follows closely with 2,772 students, contributing to a landscape that contains no charter school options.

Suburban and Rural Variety

Hardin County offers a mix of 11 rural schools and 6 suburban campuses, with an average school size of 513 students. Lumberton High School is the largest campus with 1,229 students, while other rural schools offer much smaller cohorts.

Suburban Success Meets Rural Charm

Hardin County is an ideal choice for buyers looking for high-performing schools in a variety of settings. The impressive graduation rates across Lumberton and Silsbee make it a top destination for growing families.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hardin County

via RiskByCounty

Hardin County faces significant disaster risk

Hardin County's composite risk score of 69.56 exceeds the national average by 40%, earning a Relatively Low rating that masks serious exposure to multiple hazards. The Southeast Texas county experiences critical vulnerability to hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding.

High-risk county in Texas

Hardin County ranks well above the Texas state average of 49.00 with a composite score of 69.56, placing it among the state's higher-risk counties. Its proximity to the Gulf Coast and riverine environments create overlapping disaster exposure.

Riskier than most Southeast Texas peers

Hardin County's disaster profile exceeds that of several neighboring Southeast Texas counties, with particularly acute hurricane and tornado exposure. Its combined flood and storm risk is among the region's highest.

Hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods converge

Hardin County faces a triple threat: hurricane risk of 87.15, tornado risk of 85.05, and flood risk of 66.67—all critically high. The county's location on the Texas Gulf Coast and within major waterway systems creates compound disaster risk that demands serious preparation.

Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable

Hardin County residents must carry robust hurricane, flood, and tornado coverage to protect against the county's converging hazards. Standard policies often exclude flood damage—purchase separate flood insurance now, as claims surge during active seasons.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Hardin County

via WaterByCounty

Hardin County Outperforms State Compliance Averages

The county earns a D grade despite having 11 health violations over the past five years. Its violation rate of 17.8 per 100,000 residents is far superior to the Texas average of 581.9. Most residents are served by systems that consistently meet Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

Watershed Assessments Pending for Hardin

Federal §303(d) assessments have not yet been completed for water bodies within Hardin County. Consequently, there is no official record of impaired waterways in the EPA ATTAINS system. This suggests a need for localized monitoring to ensure environmental health is maintained.

Robust Monitoring Along Coastal Basins

Hardin County maintains a strong monitoring footprint with 17 sites and 6,023 recorded measurements. Data collectors focus on physical characteristics, major inorganics, and nutrients. This consistent data collection supports better management of local water resources.

Village Creek Flowing at Normal Levels

Village Creek near Kountze is currently flowing at 946 cfs, which is 105% of its long-term mean. This indicates healthy, typical hydrologic conditions for the 860-square-mile drainage area. Stable flows help maintain water quality and support local aquatic ecosystems.

Maintaining Safety in Hardin County

With streamflow at typical levels and a low violation rate, the overall water outlook is positive. However, the D grade indicates that some systems still face periodic health violations. Residents should review their local water quality reports annually to ensure their specific provider is compliant.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hardin County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm and Very Wet Climate

Hardin County's annual average temperature of 67.9°F is significantly higher than the national median. The region receives a massive 64.3 inches of annual rainfall, placing it among the wettest in the country.

Exceeding Texas Averages in Rainfall

The county is warmer than the Texas average of 65.5°F. Most notably, its 64.3 inches of rain is double the statewide average of 31.9 inches.

Wetter Than Coastal Neighbors

Compared to Harris County, Hardin receives nearly 11 inches more rain annually. It maintains the same humid subtropical profile as its neighbors but with intensified precipitation.

Sweltering Summers and Mild Winters

The county endures 109 days of extreme heat over 90°F, with summer temperatures averaging 82.3°F. Winters remain mild at 52.3°F and see almost no snowfall.

Managing Humidity and Heavy Rain

Residents must maintain robust drainage systems to handle the 64.3 inches of annual rain. HVAC systems require regular maintenance to combat 109 days of extreme heat and high humidity.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hardin County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Acidic Soils of the Big Thicket

Hardin County features very acidic soil with a pH of 4.61, far below the national median of 6.5. This low pH level reflects the humid, forested environment of East Texas.

Silty Mix with Low Clay Content

The composition is 45.6% sand and 39.5% silt, but only 12.8% clay. This creates a silty texture that is easy to dig but may lack the structural strength of heavier clay soils.

Exceptional Organic Matter and Water Storage

Organic matter is a highlight at 2.29%, significantly higher than the 1.66% Texas average. The available water capacity of 0.164 in/in is also much higher than the state average, ensuring plants stay hydrated.

Slow Water Movement and Potential Runoff

Belonging to hydrologic group D, the soil manages water slowly despite its high sand content. This indicates a high runoff potential, which is a critical consideration for local building and gardening projects.

Ideal for Acid-Loving Plants in Zone 9a

Zone 9a's warm climate and acidic soil are perfect for blueberries, azaleas, and camellias. Utilize the high organic matter to start a lush, native woodland garden in your own backyard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hardin County

via LawnByCounty

Extreme Challenges in the Piney Woods

Hardin County faces a very difficult lawn environment with a score of just 14.7. This is less than half the state average, reflecting the unique struggles of maintaining turf in this humid 9a hardiness zone.

Abundant Rain and Stifling Heat

The county receives a massive 64.3 inches of rain annually, far exceeding the 50-inch ideal upper limit for many grasses. This moisture, paired with 109 heat days and 6,830 growing degree days, creates a prime environment for fungal diseases and rapid weed growth.

Highly Acidic Soil Foundation

The soil pH is an extremely low 4.61, which is much more acidic than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. Extensive lime applications are likely necessary to prevent nutrient deficiencies and aluminum toxicity in your lawn.

Total Coverage of Severe Drought

Despite high average rainfall, 100% of the county is currently in severe drought after 23 weeks of dry conditions this year. This volatility means you must have a plan to manage both floods and total dryness within the same season.

St. Augustine Thrives in the Heat

St. Augustine grass is the standard choice here for its ability to handle humidity and high temperatures. Your growing season is exceptionally long, beginning as early as late February and lasting through the end of November.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hardin County's county score?
Hardin County, Texas has a composite county score of 41.4 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 Hardin County rank among counties in Texas?
Hardin County ranks #126 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 Hardin County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Hardin County is $2,174, with an effective tax rate of 1.16%. This earns Hardin County a tax score of 27.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hardin County?
The median household income in Hardin County, Texas is $72,532 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hardin County earns an income score of 72.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hardin County, Texas a good place to live?
Hardin County scores 41.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #126 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Hardin 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 Hardin County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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