countyscore
25.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 70.1Disaster Risk 45.2Cost of Living 38.4

County Report Card

About Howard County, Texas

Struggling Against National Livability Standards

Howard County earns a composite score of 25.1, placing it significantly below the national median of 50.0. This low ranking highlights systemic challenges in safety and public health. Despite these hurdles, the local economy remains a critical hub for the regional energy sector.

Well Below the Texas Average

The county's score of 25.1 is nearly 17 points lower than the Texas state average of 41.9. Howard County faces unique pressures that distinguish it from more balanced Texas counties. Local leaders are tasked with addressing safety and health disparities to align more closely with state performance.

High Income and Environmental Resilience

The county boasts a strong Income Score of 70.1, supported by a median household income of $71,457. Residents also benefit from a Risk Score of 45.2, indicating a moderate level of resilience against natural disasters. These economic advantages provide a foundation for those working in the Permian Basin.

Safety and Health Performance Gaps

Safety is a primary concern with a score of 7.8, and the Health Score follows closely at a low 12.9. Additionally, the School Score of 16.1 suggest local education metrics require significant attention. These low scores in essential public services impact the overall quality of life for residents.

Best for Industrial Professionals

Howard County is most attractive to workers in the energy industry who prioritize high earning potential over traditional lifestyle amenities. It serves as a pragmatic home base for those focused on the regional economy. However, families may find the deficits in safety and schooling difficult to overlook.

Score breakdown

Tax31.7Cost38.4Safety7.8Health12.9Schools16.1Income70.1Risk45.2Water13.6Weather34.5
🏛31.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠38.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼70.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡7.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤12.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓16.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡45.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧13.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤34.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨17.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱17.8
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

Howard County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Howard County

via TaxByCounty

Howard County taxes modestly above national norms

Howard County's 1.093% effective tax rate slightly exceeds the national median of 1.1%, positioning it near the middle of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $1,642 remains substantially lower than the national median of $2,690.

Howard County sits below Texas average

With a 1.093% effective rate, Howard County undercuts the state average of 1.276%, ranking in the lower-tax tier across Texas. Typical homeowners pay $1,642 annually versus the statewide average of $2,193.

Howard County taxes competitive with regional peers

Howard County's 1.093% rate falls between Houston County's 0.921% and Hunt County's 1.297%, offering moderate taxation for the region. At $1,642 in median annual taxes, Howard County homeowners pay less than counterparts in Hunt, Jack, or Hutchinson counties.

What Howard County homeowners actually pay

The median Howard County home valued at $150,300 generates an estimated $1,642 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, expect $1,899; without, around $1,358.

Your property tax assessment may be inflated

Many Texas homeowners discover their homes are assessed above fair market value, making them eligible to challenge their appraisals. Filing a protest costs nothing and could lower your annual tax bill—a worthwhile step even in moderate-tax counties like Howard.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Howard County

via CostByCounty

Howard County beats national affordability

Howard County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio outperforms the national benchmark, making it one of Texas's more affordable housing markets despite modest wages. With median household income of $71,457—just 5% below the national average—residents enjoy better housing affordability than most of the country.

Best affordability in Texas comparison

At 16.7%, Howard County's rent-to-income ratio ranks well below Texas's state average of 18.1%, signaling genuine housing relief for renters. The median rent of $993 sits just 3% above the state average, making it a reasonably priced option in the Texas housing market.

Howard leads adjacent counties

Howard County's 16.7% affordability ratio outpaces Hunt County (20.3%), Irion County (21.2%), and Houston County (19.2%), positioning it as the most renter-friendly option in the region. Only Hutchinson County (15.6%) offers better affordability, but with significantly lower median income.

Howard County housing costs explained

Renters pay $993 monthly while homeowners carry $850, creating a compact $143 gap that favors ownership for those with downpayment ability. Against median income of $71,457 annually, housing absorbs just 16.7%—leaving substantial income for savings, healthcare, and quality of life.

Howard County: solid middle ground

If affordability and income stability matter equally, Howard County deserves your attention with its below-state-average housing burden and $150,300 median home value. Test whether your current monthly housing costs exceed $993 rent or $850 ownership—if so, a move could free up meaningful income each year.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Howard County

via IncomeByCounty

Howard County slightly behind national income

Howard County's median household income of $71,457 falls just $3,298 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it solidly in the middle-to-upper range of U.S. counties. This positions Howard County as a relatively prosperous community by national standards.

Above-average earners in Texas

At $71,457, Howard County exceeds the Texas state average median income of $64,737 by nearly $7,000, ranking it among the stronger-earning counties statewide. This advantage reflects robust economic activity and competitive wages in the region.

One of the highest earners in its region

Howard County's $71,457 median income ranks second among its peers, trailing only Hunt County ($70,112)—though they're nearly equal. This consistent prosperity contrasts sharply with Hudspeth County ($39,336), making Howard County a relative economic leader in West Texas.

Affordable housing relative to earnings

A rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% is excellent, falling well below the 28% affordability benchmark and suggesting housing costs are comfortable for most residents. Combined with a median home value of $150,300, homeownership is genuinely accessible for Howard County households.

Invest your earnings for long-term growth

With household income above $71,000 and low housing costs, Howard County residents have genuine capacity to invest beyond basic savings. Tax-advantaged retirement accounts, real estate investment, and diversified portfolios can transform steady earnings into generational wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Howard County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime Rates Exceed National Benchmarks

Howard County reports a total crime rate of 3,001.0 per 100,000 residents, which is roughly 25% higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite these figures, the county maintains a respectable safety score of 95.3.

Trailing the Texas Safety Score Average

The county's safety score of 95.3 sits below the Texas state average of 96.8. Local law enforcement agencies work to manage a total crime rate that exceeds the state average of 2,052.5 per 100,000 people.

Elevated Crime Compared to Nearby Counties

Howard County's total crime rate of 3,001.0 is nearly double that of Hutchinson County to the north. Only two reporting agencies provide the data for these figures, suggesting a concentrated area of activity.

Significant Violent and Property Crime Totals

Violent crime in Howard County sits at 614.7 per 100,000 residents, nearly double the state average of 341.3. Property crime accounts for the majority of incidents at a rate of 2,386.3.

Enhanced Vigilance for Howard County Homeowners

High property crime rates suggest residents should prioritize home security systems and neighborhood watch programs. Modern alarm systems remain one of the most effective deterrents against local theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Howard County

via HealthByCounty

Howard County trails U.S. life expectancy

At 71.5 years, Howard County residents face a 7.4-year gap compared to the national average of 78.9 years. With 23.8% reporting poor or fair health, the county ranks below national health benchmarks, reflecting higher disease burden and healthcare barriers.

Lowest life expectancy in Texas

Howard County's 71.5-year life expectancy is among the lowest in Texas, sitting 2.8 years below the state average of 74.3 years. The county faces significant health equity challenges compared to better-performing Texas regions.

Strong mental health, weak primary care

Howard County boasts exceptional mental health provider availability at 229 per 100K—far above peers like Houston County (41 per 100K) and Jack County (23 per 100K). However, primary care provision lags at 21 per 100K, suggesting residents face gaps in routine medical visits despite robust behavioral health support.

Insurance high, provider access low

Howard County's uninsured rate of 19.8% mirrors the state average, but residents face a critical shortage of primary care doctors relative to population need. This mismatch means many insured residents struggle to find available appointments for basic health services.

Maximize your mental health benefits

Howard County's extensive mental health provider network is a strength—make sure your insurance plan covers behavioral health services. Visit the county health department or marketplace.healthcare.gov to select coverage that includes both primary and mental health care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Howard County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Three-District System Serving Over 5,000 Students

Howard County operates 14 public schools distributed among three school districts. The system supports 5,358 students through six elementary, three middle, and four high schools. One alternative school also serves the local population's diverse needs.

Academic Challenges and Investment Opportunities

The graduation rate currently stands at 78.3%, falling below both the Texas average of 91.6% and the national mark of 87%. Local per-pupil expenditure is $6,417, which is approximately half of the national average. The county’s composite school score is 46.1, indicating room for growth in academic outcomes.

Big Spring ISD Dominates Regional Education

Big Spring ISD is the largest district by far, educating 3,510 students across nine separate campuses. Coahoma ISD and Forsan ISD provide additional options, serving 1,095 and 753 students respectively. No charter schools currently operate within the county boundaries.

Town-Centered Schools with Larger Enrollments

With an average school size of 412 students, Howard County schools feel more populated than many neighboring rural areas. Eight schools are located in town settings, led by Big Spring High School with 1,084 students. Six other schools provide a more rural learning experience for the community.

Relocate Near Howard County's Top Schools

Homebuyers in Howard County can choose between the robust facilities of Big Spring or the smaller settings in Coahoma and Forsan. Proximity to school districts remains a primary driver for local property values and family stability. Check out available homes to find the right fit for your student.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Howard County

via RiskByCounty

Howard County's balanced risk picture

Howard County scores 54.80 on the composite risk scale, moderately above the national average and reflecting a relatively low overall rating despite serious wildfire exposure. The score places the county in a middle-risk band nationally, with hazards concentrated in specific threat types rather than spread across all categories.

Slightly elevated above Texas average

At 54.80, Howard County runs slightly above Texas's state average composite risk of 49.00, positioning it in the moderate-risk tier among Texas counties. The elevation is driven almost entirely by an exceptional wildfire risk score of 89.47, one of the highest in the state.

Wildfire hotspot among peers

Howard County's wildfire risk of 89.47 substantially exceeds neighboring Mitchell, Martin, and Glasscock counties, making it a wildfire hotspot in the Permian Basin region. While tornado risk at 66.09 matches regional norms, the wildfire threat profile sets Howard apart as notably higher-risk.

Wildfire risk dominates the landscape

Wildfire represents the county's paramount hazard with a risk score of 89.47, reflecting the dry climate and vegetation patterns of West Texas ranching country. Tornado risk at 66.09 and flood risk at 45.42 present secondary concerns, while hurricane risk remains minimal at 33.92.

Prioritize wildfire-specific protections now

Howard County homeowners should verify their policies explicitly cover wildfire damage, as standard coverage often excludes or limits fire-related losses. Defensible space maintenance around homes—clearing brush, trimming trees, and reducing fuel load—provides critical protection alongside comprehensive insurance.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Howard County

via WeatherByCounty

Howard's High Plains Semi-Arid Climate

Howard County's 64.8°F annual average temperature is typical for the southern plains. It is much drier than the national average, receiving only 19.5 inches of rain per year.

Warmer and Drier than the State Median

The county sits right at the state average temperature of 65.5°F but is significantly drier than the 31.9-inch Texas average. It represents the transition into the arid Western United States.

A Local Hotspot for Triple Digits

Howard County sees 115 extreme heat days annually, more than many of its eastern neighbors. This frequent heat is paired with a modest 2.5 inches of annual snowfall.

Hot Dry Summers and Cool Winters

July temperatures average 83.9°F, while winter months average 46.3°F. The lack of humidity often leads to significant temperature swings between day and night.

Focus on Heat Safety and Water

With 115 days over 90°F, heat safety and hydration are critical for outdoor workers and residents. Low rainfall totals mean water conservation is a year-round priority.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Howard County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline profiles in the Permian Basin

Howard County soil maintains an average pH of 7.73, making it notably more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This high pH is typical of West Texas landscapes and exceeds the state average of 7.09. These conditions can sometimes lock up micronutrients like iron for certain plant species.

The balance of sand and clay

The soil composition is exactly 50.0% sand, which aids in workability and aeration. With 22.8% clay and 24.9% silt, the soil has enough fine particles to prevent nutrients from washing away too quickly. This mix creates a sturdy structure that resists compaction better than pure clay soils.

Fertility challenges in a dry climate

Organic matter content is 1.47%, falling below the state average of 1.66% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is 0.131 in/in, indicating a moderate ability to store moisture for crops. Regular additions of organic mulch are essential here to help conserve water and build soil health.

Hydrologic limitations and runoff

Classified in hydrologic group D, the soil exhibits high runoff potential during infrequent but heavy West Texas rain events. This suggests that the soil becomes saturated quickly or has restrictive layers below the surface. Effective land management requires careful monitoring of irrigation to avoid surface salt buildup.

Thriving in Zone 8a

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, Howard County is ideal for drought-tolerant species like desert willow, rosemary, and prickly pear. Gardeners should prioritize alkaline-tolerant plants that can handle the intense Texas sun and occasional winter freezes. Embrace the desert beauty and plant a resilient xeriscape this season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Howard County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Conditions for Howard County Lawns

Howard County earns a difficulty score of 17.8, making it significantly harder to grow grass here than the state average of 31.7. Situated in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, the environment is harsh and arid compared to the national median of 50.0. Success requires specialized knowledge of desert-hardy turf varieties.

Arid Climate and Intense Heat

The county receives only 19.5 inches of annual rain, well below the 31.9-inch state average and the 30-inch ideal for lawns. Intense summer heat is common, with 115 extreme heat days exceeding 90°F. This combination requires aggressive irrigation strategies to keep traditional lawns from going dormant.

Alkaline Soil and Sandy Texture

The soil pH of 7.73 is moderately alkaline, which can lock up essential micronutrients like iron for some grass types. With 50.0% sand and 22.8% clay, the soil provides some structure but may drain too quickly for water-hungry grasses. Adding organic matter is vital to help the ground hold onto the scarce moisture it receives.

Extended Drought Hits Howard Hard

Lawns have struggled through 28 weeks of drought over the past year, with 81.9% of the area currently in severe drought. To conserve water, homeowners should raise mower blades to shade the soil and reduce evaporation. Every part of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry, making conservation critical.

Choose Heat-Hardy Grass Types

Buffalo grass and drought-tolerant Bermuda strains are the best performers for Howard County's Zone 8a climate. Planting should ideally occur after March 20, once the threat of spring frost has passed. You have until the first frost on November 13 to establish a resilient root system.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Howard County's county score?
Howard County, Texas has a composite county score of 25.1 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 Howard County rank among counties in Texas?
Howard County ranks #239 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 Howard County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Howard County is $1,642, with an effective tax rate of 1.09%. This earns Howard County a tax score of 31.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Howard County?
The median household income in Howard County, Texas is $71,457 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Howard County earns an income score of 70.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Howard County, Texas a good place to live?
Howard County scores 25.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #239 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Howard 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 Howard 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.