countyscore
54.5
County Score
Cost of Living 91.3Disaster Risk 89.8Property Tax 63.6

County Report Card

About Harmon County, Oklahoma

Beating the National Median Score

Harmon County achieves a composite score of 54.5, notably higher than the national median of 50.0. Its profile suggests a balanced, if rural, quality of life.

State Leader in Overall Value

Harmon outpaces the Oklahoma state average of 43.0 by more than 11 points. It ranks as one of the most livable counties in the state based on the composite index.

Unbeatable Costs and Natural Safety

The county shines with a Cost Score of 91.3, supported by median home values of just $75,700. A Risk Score of 89.8 further confirms its status as one of the safest areas from natural disasters.

Income and Health Gaps

Despite low costs, the Income Score of 23.7 reflects a local economy with lower wages. The Health Score of 11.5 is also a point of concern, suggesting limited local medical resources.

Perfect for Maximizing Savings

Harmon County is ideal for individuals with fixed or outside incomes who want their dollars to stretch as far as possible. It provides a peaceful, low-risk environment for those who prioritize safety and homeownership.

2040608010063.691.348.211.553.823.789.832.551.9Tax63.6Cost91.3Safety48.2Health11.5Schools53.8Income23.7Risk89.8Water32.5Weather51.954.5/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Harmon County DNA

Foverall

How Harmon County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Harmon County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (91.3/100) but notably weak in Health (11.5/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
63.6+11.600000000000001
Cost
91.3+43.3
Safety
48.2
Health
11.5-38.5
Schools
53.8
Income
23.7-27.3
Risk
89.8+42.8
Water
32.5-25.5
Weather
51.9
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$75,700

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$663/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$75,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$26,520/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.4x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $54,286/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

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

Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Greer County
Oklahoma
53.5
Childress County
Texas
42.6
Collingsworth County
Texas
58.7
Hardeman County
Texas
57.2
Jackson County
Oklahoma
36.9
Beckham County
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42.9
Kiowa County
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55.5
Cottle County
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61.5

Deep Dives

Harmon County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Harmon County

via TaxByCounty

Harmon's taxes rank low nationally

Harmon County's effective tax rate of 0.698% remains substantially below national norms, with a median property tax of $528. At just 20% of the national median tax of $2,690, Harmon ranks among America's most affordable counties for property taxation.

Slightly above Oklahoma's state average

Harmon County's 0.698% rate edges above Oklahoma's 0.652% state average, yet its median tax of $528 is notably below the state median of $959. The county maintains a light tax burden despite a rate that's marginally above the state norm.

Among the region's higher rates

Harmon's 0.698% rate is second-highest in its cluster, behind only Grady (0.703%), and exceeds Garvin (0.566%), Grant (0.604%), and Greer (0.570%). However, Harmon's low median home value keeps actual tax bills competitive.

Annual taxes hover around $528 median

A median Harmon County property valued at $75,700 incurs an estimated annual tax of $528—or $864 with mortgage obligations included. This translates to roughly $44 per month in taxes for a typical homeowner.

Challenge your assessment if it seems high

Overassessed properties are common across Oklahoma, and Harmon County homeowners shouldn't assume their bill is correct. Filing an appeal with the county assessor can reduce your tax burden if your assessed value exceeds current market conditions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Harmon County

via CostByCounty

Harmon rents below national average burden

Harmon County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.7% sits comfortably below the national average of 17.0%, offering meaningful relief for renters. The median household income of $54,286 falls notably short of the national median of $74,755, yet the county's modest $663 monthly rent helps offset this income disadvantage.

Below-average rent burden statewide

Harmon County's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio beats Oklahoma's state average of 17.0%, and its median rent of $663 undercuts the state average of $814 by $151. This favorable comparison positions Harmon among Oklahoma's more affordable rental markets despite lower local incomes.

Competitive rents, lower incomes

Harmon County's $663 rent is the second-lowest in its region, trailing only Greer County's $624, while its $54,286 income ranks among the lower end of neighboring counties. The strong rent advantage partially compensates for limited income growth opportunities in the area.

Ownership costs match rental burden

Harmon County renters pay $663 monthly (14.7% of income), while homeowners allocate $533 monthly (11.8% of income) on median home values of $75,700. The modest home prices and low ownership costs make purchasing particularly attractive for those able to secure financing.

Harmon suits cost-minimizers and first-buyers

If affordability is your north star, Harmon County delivers low rents and even lower ownership costs, though income growth may be limited. Remote workers and retirees will find this county's $663 rent and affordable home values create substantial savings compared to national averages.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Harmon County

via IncomeByCounty

Harmon trails far behind national

At $54,286, Harmon County's median household income trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by a significant 27.4%. This substantial gap highlights the economic struggles facing many rural Oklahoma communities.

Below Oklahoma state average

Harmon County's $54,286 income falls $3,987 short of Oklahoma's state average of $58,273. The county ranks in the lower third of Oklahoma's 77 counties, facing steeper economic challenges than most of the state.

Among the region's lower earners

Harmon County ($54,286) underperforms most nearby counties, including Greer ($60,183), Grant ($61,824), and Garvin ($57,127). Only Hughes ($47,923) and Haskell ($49,930) counties have lower median incomes in the broader region.

Housing remains affordable

Despite lower income, Harmon County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.7% remains solidly affordable, and the median home value of $75,700 is among the lowest in the state. Housing costs are well-managed relative to earnings, protecting household budgets.

Smart planning can build security

While income lags at $54,286, Harmon County's affordable housing provides a foundation for financial growth. Focus on budgeting, eliminating high-interest debt, and gradually building emergency savings before pursuing investment opportunities.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Harmon County

via CrimeByCounty

High National Safety in Harmon County

Harmon County earns a safety score of 98.2, indicating it is one of the more secure counties in the U.S. The total crime rate of 1160.4 per 100,000 is far below the national average of 2,385.5.

Ranking High Above State Averages

Harmon County is twice as safe as the average Oklahoma county when measuring total crime rates. Its rate of 1160.4 stands in stark contrast to the state average of 2647.7 per 100,000 residents.

Harmon and Greer Move in Tandem

Harmon County's crime rate of 1160.4 mirrors neighboring Greer County at 1157.1. This regional pocket of Southwest Oklahoma consistently provides a peaceful environment for its residents.

Property Safety is a Local Strength

Violent crime sits at 320.1 per 100,000, remaining below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is even lower relative to national trends, with only 840.3 incidents reported.

Simple Habits for Better Security

While crime is low, maintaining home security systems can deter the occasional property crime. Stay connected with neighbors to monitor local activity and keep the community safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Harmon County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Success in a Single District

Harmon County operates a centralized education system through one primary district located in Hollis. This district manages three schools—one elementary, one middle, and one high school—serving 492 students. This streamlined approach focuses all county resources into a single vertical academic path.

Exceptional Graduation and School Scores

Harmon County excels with a 95.0% graduation rate, far exceeding the state's 84.3% and the nation's 87.0%. The county's school score of 54.6 is significantly higher than the Oklahoma average of 49.5. Despite per-pupil spending of $6,268 being slightly below state levels, academic outcomes remain among the highest in the region.

The Hollis Public School System

The Hollis district encompasses the entirety of the county's public school enrollment with 492 students. There are no charter schools in the county, ensuring a unified traditional public school experience. This single-district model fosters a strong, shared community identity among all residents.

A Purely Rural Academic Setting

All three schools in the county are classified as rural, providing a consistent environment for every grade level. Enrollment is distributed fairly evenly, with Hollis ES serving 229 students and the high school serving 155. The average school size of 164 students facilitates a familiar and supportive atmosphere for all families.

High-Performance Living in Hollis

With one of the highest graduation rates in the state, Harmon County is a standout choice for families. Searching for a home in Hollis puts you at the center of a high-achieving school system that consistently outperforms benchmarks. Prioritize your child's success by exploring local real estate in this high-scoring district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Harmon County

via RiskByCounty

Harmon ranks as safest in nation

Harmon County's composite risk score of 10.21 places it in the very low category and represents one of America's safest counties for natural disaster exposure. Even its highest-risk hazard, wildfire (57.95), falls below state and national norms.

Oklahoma's safest county

At just 10.21, Harmon's score is the lowest in Oklahoma and less than one-fifth the state average of 55.47. The county's extreme southwestern panhandle location insulates it from tornado corridors and seismic activity that affects the rest of the state.

Harmon far exceeds neighbors' safety

Harmon's 10.21 score marginally edges out Greer County (17.08) to the south, establishing the southwestern panhandle as Oklahoma's safest region. Both counties dramatically outpace eastern and central Oklahoma's hazard exposure.

Wildfire only material concern

Wildfire risk at 57.95 is Harmon's sole noteworthy exposure; tornado (33.65), flood (3.85), earthquake (20.87), and hurricane (16.98) all present negligible threats. The county's geographic isolation and arid climate create an exceptionally benign hazard environment.

Minimal special insurance needs

Harmon residents can rely on standard homeowners insurance without premium coverage add-ons or extensive protective upgrades. Basic property maintenance and standard wildfire awareness constitute adequate preparedness for this remarkably safe county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Harmon County

via WaterByCounty

Low Violation Count Still Earns Grade F

Harmon County reports only 2 health violations over five years, resulting in a rate of 55.5 per 100,000 residents. While this rate is drastically lower than the state average of 960.4, the county still receives a Grade F for compliance. This grade reflects the severity of the specific health-based violations recorded.

Local Watersheds Not Yet Assessed

Harmon County's water bodies are not yet covered in the federal §303(d) assessment for watershed health. No official impairment percentages or top causes are currently available for this jurisdiction. The health of local streams remains unverified by the Clean Water Act reporting process.

No Federal Monitoring Records Found

There are currently no monitoring records for Harmon County in the federal EPA Water Quality Portal. The absence of data sites means there is no live signal on physical or biological water characteristics. This lack of information creates a challenge for data-driven water quality management.

No Active Streamflow Gauges in Harmon

Harmon County lacks a representative USGS streamgage to provide current discharge or flow statistics. Without live data from the Elm Fork of the North Fork Red River, current conditions cannot be compared to historical means. Residents must rely on broader regional drought maps for flow context.

Exercise Caution Amidst Data Gaps

The lack of watershed health and monitoring data makes it difficult to assess hidden risks in local water sources. Because the county has a Grade F for compliance despite few violations, residents should remain aware of potential contamination issues. Regular testing of private wells and awareness of municipal reports is advised.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Harmon County

via WeatherByCounty

Dry heat in the southwest

Harmon County sits exactly at the Oklahoma state average of 60.4°F for annual temperature. Its climate is defined by aridity, receiving only 25.9 inches of annual precipitation.

Perfectly average temperature, below average rain

Harmon perfectly mirrors the statewide temperature average of 60.4°F. While its temperature is standard, its low rainfall of 25.9 inches puts it among the state's driest regions.

Drier than its neighbors

Harmon is even drier than neighbor Greer County, with about an inch less rain per year. It is one of the few counties in the region to break the 100-day mark for extreme heat.

Triple-digit heat days

Heat is the dominant story here, with 101 days reaching at least 90°F every year. Winters are manageable, featuring a 39.6°F average and only 3.3 inches of snowfall.

Prioritize water and sun safety

With over 100 days of extreme heat, efficient air conditioning and sun protection are essential. Residents should also plan for water conservation given the low 25.9-inch annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Harmon County

via SoilByCounty

Western Oklahoma's Alkaline Profile

Harmon County shares a pH of 6.86 with its neighbors, making it more alkaline than the Oklahoma state average of 6.06. This pH is slightly above the national 6.5 median, which often favors specific crops over acid-loving plants. The county’s soil score of 30.1 suggests a landscape that requires thoughtful management.

Coarse Sand and Variable Textures

With a high sand content of 47.0%, Harmon County has some of the coarsest soil in the region. Silt accounts for 28.1% and clay for 18.3%, creating a profile that drains quickly but lacks some structural cohesion. The dominant texture is classified as variable, reflecting a diverse and changing landscape.

Navigating Low Organic Reserves

At 1.10%, the organic matter in Harmon County is significantly lower than the national 2.0% average. The available water capacity is also lower than the state average at 0.129 in/in. These numbers indicate that plants here may face more stress during the peak of summer heat without supplemental irrigation.

Slow Infiltration Despite Sandy Mix

The soil belongs to Hydrologic Group D, characterized by high runoff and slow infiltration despite the high sand percentage. This can lead to surface crusting which further prevents water from reaching deep root zones. Strategic mulching is often necessary to keep the surface permeable and moist.

Hardy Crops for a 7b Climate

Cotton and sorghum are traditional favorites that can handle the specific soil and 7b hardiness zone of Harmon County. Gardeners should prioritize drought-resistant varieties and consider raised beds to better control soil quality. With its sunny climate, this is a great place for heat-loving succulents and native shrubs.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Harmon County

via LawnByCounty

Beating the Heat in Harmon County

Harmon County scores a 43.5 for lawn difficulty, making it slightly more challenging than the state average of 46.1. This Zone 7b county faces substantial environmental stress compared to the national median score of 50.0. Success here depends on managing moisture in one of the state's hotter regions.

Triple-Digit Heat and Low Annual Rainfall

The county endures 101 extreme heat days each year, far exceeding the state average of 76 days. Annual precipitation is sparse at 25.9 inches, nearly a foot less than the typical Oklahoma total. These factors combine with 5,099 growing degree days to create a high-demand watering schedule.

Sandy Texture with Strong pH Levels

The soil pH stands at a favorable 6.86, which supports excellent nutrient uptake for most grasses. However, the high sand content of 47.0% means the ground struggles to hold onto water and fertilizers. Adding compost or other organic amendments is necessary to improve the water-holding capacity of this variable soil texture.

Resilience Amidst Rising Dryness

While only 0.1% of the county is currently in severe drought, the entire area is considered abnormally dry. Harmon County has faced 14 weeks of drought over the last year, requiring careful monitoring of irrigation systems. Efficient water use is paramount when balancing the 101 days of extreme heat.

Heat-Ready Grasses for Harmon County

Select heat-hardy varieties like Bermuda or Zoysia that can withstand the intense summer sun. The spring planting window opens after April 10, once the danger of the last frost has subsided. Growth will continue until the first fall frost, which usually arrives around October 28.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Harmon County's county score?
Harmon County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 54.5 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 Harmon County rank among counties in Oklahoma?
Harmon County ranks #9 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 Harmon County, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Harmon County is $528, with an effective tax rate of 0.70%. This earns Harmon County a tax score of 63.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Harmon County?
The median household income in Harmon County, Oklahoma is $54,286 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Harmon County earns an income score of 23.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Harmon County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Harmon County scores 54.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Oklahoma. The best way to evaluate Harmon 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 Harmon 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.