45.9
County Score
Safety 77Income & Jobs 53.1Schools 50.7

County Report Card

About Hopkins County, Texas

Approaching the National Median

Hopkins County earns a composite score of 45.9, putting it within reach of the 50.0 national median. This makes it one of the better-performing counties in this group for overall quality of life. It provides a more balanced profile than many of its rural counterparts.

Outperforming the Texas Average

With a score of 45.9, Hopkins County beats the Texas state average of 41.9. This indicates it is a more desirable location relative to the state as a whole. It stands out as a high-value option for Texas residents.

Excellent Safety and Clean Water

Safety is the county's crown jewel, with an impressive score of 77.0. The water quality is also a strong point at 50.5, while the tax score of 33.0 reflects a relatively low 1.073% effective rate. These factors contribute to a high sense of security for local residents.

Health Outcomes and Environmental Risk

Healthcare is a weak point with a score of 26.0, suggesting a need for more robust medical facilities. Environmental risk resilience also scores lower at 28.8, posing potential challenges for long-term sustainability. Schools are middle-of-the-road with a score of 50.7.

Top Choice for Safety and Stability

Hopkins County is an ideal fit for families and individuals who prioritize low crime and affordable taxes. It offers one of the most balanced livability profiles in the region for the price. It is a solid, safe, and sustainable choice for a wide range of residents.

Score breakdown

Tax33Cost37.9Safety77Health26Schools50.7Income53.1Risk28.8Water50.5Weather38
🏛33
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠37.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼53.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡77
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
26
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓50.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
28.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧50.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤38
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱35.7
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

Hopkins County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hopkins County

via TaxByCounty

Hopkins taxes below national average

At 1.073%, Hopkins County's effective tax rate falls below the national median of 1.199%, ranking it in the 30th percentile nationally. The median property tax of $2,072 on a $193,200 home remains well below the national median tax of $2,690.

Below Texas average

Hopkins County's 1.073% effective rate sits comfortably below Texas's 1.276% state average, making it one of the most tax-friendly counties statewide. The median property tax of $2,072 is among the lowest in this group and 5% below the state median of $2,193.

Most affordable in Northeast Texas

Hopkins County's 1.073% rate beats Henderson (0.981%) for competitive tax relief in this region and substantially undercuts Hemphill (1.164%) and Hill (1.234%). It's a strong choice for Northeast Texas property owners prioritizing tax efficiency.

What $193,200 home costs yearly

A median-priced Hopkins County home generates $2,072 in annual property taxes under standard conditions, or $2,311 with a mortgage. At roughly $173 per month, it's among the lowest property tax burdens profiled here.

Confirm assessment accuracy

Even in favorable-rate counties like Hopkins, overassessment occurs—review your assessment against recent comparable sales in your neighborhood. A formal appeal costs nothing and often succeeds, particularly for rural or recently appreciated properties.

Cost of Living in Hopkins County

via CostByCounty

Hopkins stretches income against rising rents

Hopkins County renters dedicate 19.2% of income to rent—above the national standard—despite median income of $64,725 trailing the national median ($74,755). The $1,038 monthly rent here reflects Northeast Texas's gradual shift from rural to commuter-belt status.

Slightly above state affordability norms

Hopkins's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio edges past Texas's 18.1% state average, placing it in the less affordable tier of Texas counties. The $1,038 rent is 7.8% higher than the state median, signaling increased demand from Dallas-area commuters.

Pricier than rural counties, cheaper than metro

Hopkins's $1,038 rent sits between Henderson ($978) and Hays ($1,417), reflecting its position as a bedroom-community bridge. Owner costs at $832 monthly mirror Henderson's $809 and undercut Hays's $1,787, suggesting more moderate real estate appreciation.

Housing takes 31% of income

Renters spend 19.2% ($1,038) of the $64,725 median income on rent, while homeowners allocate 15.5% ($832) to mortgages—combined 34.7%. This leaves households with less cushion than lower-rent counties, particularly as inflation rises.

Commuter option with trade-offs

Hopkins works for Dallas area workers seeking smaller-town life: $1,038 rents and $193,200 homes beat metro prices, though the 19.2% rent burden is creeping up. Compare carefully with Hill County ($929) or Henderson ($978) if affordability matters more than commute convenience.

Income & Jobs in Hopkins County

via IncomeByCounty

Hopkins County slightly below U.S. median

Hopkins County's median household income of $64,725 falls $10,030 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, representing a 13.4% gap. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier of American communities by earnings.

Near Texas state average income

Hopkins County's median household income of $64,725 exceeds Texas's state average of $64,737 by just $12, placing it almost exactly at the state midpoint. Per capita income of $32,536 runs marginally below the state average of $33,197.

Typical for rural North Texas region

Hopkins County's $64,725 median income closely matches Henderson County ($63,955) and Hill County ($63,147), reflecting similar rural economies in the region. The county trails the high-income growth corridors of Hays and Hood counties.

Housing costs slightly elevated

Hopkins County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.2% approaches the threshold of affordability strain, with housing consuming roughly 1 in 5.2 dollars of gross income. Median home values of $193,200 are accessible but represent a significant commitment for median-earning households.

Disciplined saving unlocks financial progress

Hopkins County households should establish budgets that account for the 19.2% housing cost burden while carving out savings for emergencies and retirement. Even modest, consistent investments can compound into meaningful wealth over decades of disciplined financial stewardship.

Safety in Hopkins County

via CrimeByCounty

Elite Safety Levels in Hopkins

Hopkins County is among the safest in the nation, boasting an elite safety score of 99.1. Its total crime rate of 551.2 per 100K is a small fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

Far Safer Than State Average

At 99.1, Hopkins County far surpasses the Texas state average safety score of 96.8. The local crime rate of 551.2 per 100K is nearly four times lower than the state average of 2,052.5.

A High Bar for Neighbors

Hopkins County sets a high bar for its Northeast Texas neighbors, reporting much lower crime than many adjacent areas. With 9 reporting agencies, the county maintains a consistently peaceful environment.

Crime is an Infrequent Occurrence

Property crime is very low at 394.5 per 100K, and violent crime is restricted to just 156.7 per 100K. These figures suggest that crime is an infrequent occurrence for the vast majority of residents.

Protecting a High-Safety Zone

Even with such a high safety score, residents should not be complacent about basic home security. Using simple locks and outdoor lights helps preserve the exceptionally low crime rates that define Hopkins County.

Health in Hopkins County

via HealthByCounty

Hopkins County near national health average

Hopkins County's 74.0-year life expectancy matches the U.S. average of 74.5 years almost exactly, though 20.7% report poor or fair health. The county mirrors national trends, suggesting middle-of-the-pack health outcomes.

Right at Texas average on longevity

Hopkins County's 74.0-year life expectancy nearly matches the Texas average of 74.3 years, and its 20.3% uninsured rate closely mirrors the state average of 19.8%. The county represents typical Texas health performance.

Hopkins middle ground among peers

Hopkins County's 74.0-year life expectancy falls between high performers like Hays County (79.4 years) and low performers like Hill County (72.6 years). Its 20.3% uninsured rate is middling, better than Hidalgo (30.2%) but worse than Hood County (16.6%).

Limited primary care, decent mental health

Hopkins County has just 24 primary care providers per 100,000 residents but 89 mental health providers per 100,000, showing mental health strength. At 20.3% uninsured, a significant portion of residents struggle to access even these limited primary care options.

Insurance opens doors to local care

With only 24 primary care providers per 100K in Hopkins County, having coverage ensures you can reach the doctors available. Check healthcare.gov for Medicaid and marketplace plans that fit your family's budget.

Schools in Hopkins County

via SchoolsByCounty

Traditional Values Across 17 Schools

Hopkins County serves 6,834 students through 17 public schools across seven districts. The county features a strong foundation of 7 elementary schools and 4 high schools.

Solid Graduation Rates and School Scores

The county maintains a 90.8% graduation rate, staying well above the national benchmark of 87.0%. Per-pupil spending of $7,239 supports a county-wide school score of 54.5.

Sulphur Springs ISD Leads the Region

Sulphur Springs ISD is the largest district, educating 4,361 students across nine campuses. There are no charter schools in the county, maintaining a focus on traditional district-led education.

Mid-Sized Schools in Rural Locales

Education is split between rural and town settings, with schools averaging 402 students. Sulphur Springs High School is the largest campus, with an enrollment of 1,263 students.

Homes Near Sulphur Springs Schools

Hopkins County offers a stable, traditional school environment with a healthy mix of town and rural campuses. Browse local listings to find a home near these community-focused districts.

Disaster Risk in Hopkins County

via RiskByCounty

Hopkins sits somewhat above national risk

Hopkins County's composite risk score of 71.22 ranks it as "Relatively Low" but above the national average. The northeast Texas county's exposure to tornadoes and other severe weather drives this moderate-to-above-average profile.

Higher-risk than typical Texas county

With a score of 71.22 versus Texas's state average of 49.00, Hopkins County ranks as above-average for the state. The county's northeast Texas location places it in a region of elevated tornado and flood activity.

Mid-range risk in northeast Texas region

Hopkins County's 71.22 score is very comparable to nearby Hill County (72.96) and Hood County (70.52), placing it squarely in the mid-risk band for central-northeast Texas. Henderson County to the south ranks higher at 84.54.

Tornadoes and flooding are primary threats

Tornado risk of 91.95 is your leading hazard, followed by flood risk of 58.05 and wildfire risk of 65.65. Earthquake risk of 45.26 is moderate but meaningful for the northeast Texas region.

Strong wind coverage and flood insurance matter

Hopkins County residents should ensure homeowners insurance includes comprehensive wind/hail coverage for tornado season and consider separate flood insurance for at-risk properties. Review flood zone maps for your address and upgrade coverage if you're in a vulnerable area.

Weather & Climate in Hopkins County

via WeatherByCounty

Lush and Warm East Texas Climate

Hopkins County averages 64.8°F annually, making it a warm, temperate environment. It is significantly wetter than much of the nation, receiving 47.9 inches of rain each year.

Wetter and Greener than Average Texas

While its temperature matches the state average of 65.5°F, its 47.9 inches of rainfall far exceeds the Texas average of 31.9 inches. This creates a much more humid environment than West Texas.

Relatively Fewer Extreme Heat Days

The county records 92 days above 90°F annually, which is slightly lower than many central and southern Texas counties. High humidity often makes these days feel warmer than the thermometer suggests.

Damp Winters and Humid Summers

Winter temperatures average 46.5°F, while summers reach 82.5°F. Snowfall data is currently unavailable, though the high annual precipitation suggests a very damp climate.

Prioritize Humidity Control and Drainage

High-efficiency dehumidifiers are vital for comfort in this 47.9-inch rain zone. Homeowners should also ensure proper gutter maintenance to handle frequent heavy downpours.

Soil Quality in Hopkins County

via SoilByCounty

Northeast Texas Soil Profile

Specific pH and soil order data are unavailable for Hopkins County in this summary. Generally, East Texas soils tend to be more acidic than the state average of 7.09.

Regional Sandy Loams

No specific data exists for the sand, silt, and clay breakdown in this report. This region typically features sandy loam textures that offer good drainage but may require regular fertilization for crop health.

Building Organic Content

Organic matter and water capacity levels are currently unrecorded for this FIPS code. In neighboring areas, organic matter often hovers near or below the state average of 1.66%.

Managing Rainfall Flow

The drainage class and hydrologic group are not provided for this county. Proper drainage is usually a priority for local farmers managing the high annual rainfall levels typical of Northeast Texas.

Lush Zone 8b Gardening

Hardiness zone 8b is ideal for a wide variety of gardening projects. From lush rose gardens to productive vegetable patches, the moderate winters and warm summers provide a great start for any gardener.

Lawn Care in Hopkins County

via LawnByCounty

High Humidity and Better Scores

Hopkins County faces a lawn difficulty score of 35.7, which is slightly better than the Texas state average. Homeowners in this Zone 8b region benefit from higher moisture levels than many of their neighbors to the west.

Top-Tier Rainfall for the State

The county receives a robust 47.9 inches of annual precipitation, far outpacing the state average of 31.9 inches. This extra rain helps counter the 92 days of extreme heat, providing a natural boost to your lawn.

Countering Nutrient Leaching

While specific soil pH data is missing, high rainfall often leads to nutrient leaching in Texas soils. It is vital to conduct a local soil test to determine if your lawn needs lime or specific fertilizers to stay healthy.

Severe Drought Despite Heavy Rain

Despite the high rainfall, the county is currently struggling with 100.0% severe drought (D2+) coverage. Having spent 17 weeks in drought over the last year, even this rainy county requires smart water conservation strategies right now.

Best Matches for Humid East Texas

St. Augustine or Bermudagrass are excellent options for the humid and hot conditions found in Hopkins County. With the last frost usually occurring around March 18, the early spring is your best window to start.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hopkins County's county score?
Hopkins County, Texas has a composite county score of 45.9 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 Hopkins County rank among counties in Texas?
Hopkins County ranks #98 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 Hopkins County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Hopkins County is $2,072, with an effective tax rate of 1.07%. This earns Hopkins County a tax score of 33/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hopkins County?
The median household income in Hopkins County, Texas is $64,725 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hopkins County earns an income score of 53.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hopkins County, Texas a good place to live?
Hopkins County scores 45.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #98 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Hopkins 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 Hopkins County with other counties side by side.