countyscore
31.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 66.6Schools 54.2Lawn Care 47.7

County Report Card

About Hunt County, Texas

Lagging Behind the National Median

With a composite score of 31.5, Hunt County falls short of the national median of 50.0. While it benefits from the proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, it faces challenges in infrastructure and cost. This score suggests that the benefits of suburban growth haven't reached all dimensions of local life.

Below the Texas Average Benchmarks

Hunt County's score of 31.5 sits below the Texas state average of 41.9. Despite its location in a high-growth corridor, it struggles to maintain the balance found in other suburbanizing counties. It ranks in the lower tier of Texas counties for overall livability metrics.

Solid Incomes and Moderate Schooling

The county's strongest suit is its Income Score of 66.6, supported by a respectable median household income of $70,112. The School Score of 54.2 also shows that the local education system is outperforming many of its other metrics. These strengths make it a viable option for commuters earning DFW wages.

High Costs and High Risks

The Cost Score is quite low at 19.3, partly due to a 1.297% effective tax rate and rising rents. The Risk Score of 17.8 also indicates significant vulnerability to natural or environmental hazards. These factors combine to put pressure on the wallets and security of local residents.

A Commuter's Compromise

Hunt County best serves professionals who work in neighboring urban centers but want a foothold in a more rural setting. It offers decent income potential and schools, though residents must navigate higher taxes and environmental risks. It is a pragmatic choice for those building a career in North Texas.

Score breakdown

Tax20.9Cost19.3Safety29.3Health27.5Schools54.2Income66.6Risk17.8Water45.3Weather32.9
🏛20.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠19.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼66.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡29.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤27.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓54.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡17.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧45.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤32.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨44.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱47.7
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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Nearby counties

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Deep Dives

Hunt County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hunt County

via TaxByCounty

Hunt County taxes exceed national and state averages

At 1.297%, Hunt County's effective tax rate exceeds both the national median of 1.1% and Texas's state average of 1.276%, placing it among higher-taxing U.S. counties. The median property tax of $2,736 nearly matches the national median of $2,690.

Hunt County ranks high on Texas tax list

Hunt County's 1.297% effective rate ranks above the state average of 1.276%, placing it in the upper tier of Texas counties by tax burden. Homeowners pay $2,736 in median annual taxes versus the statewide average of $2,193.

Hunt County carries heaviest regional tax burden

Hunt County's 1.297% rate significantly exceeds Houston County (0.921%), Irion County (0.954%), and Howard County (1.093%), though Jack County (1.296%) is nearly identical. At $2,736 in median annual taxes, Hunt County homeowners pay more than most regional peers.

What Hunt County homeowners actually pay

The median Hunt County home valued at $210,900 generates an estimated $2,736 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, expect $3,663; without, around $2,048.

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. Given Hunt County's relatively high tax rates, filing a protest could yield meaningful savings and costs nothing to pursue.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hunt County

via CostByCounty

Hunt County's housing burden mounts

Hunt County's 20.3% rent-to-income ratio sits well above the national threshold, signaling significant housing pressure for renters despite solid median household income of $70,112. At just 6% below the national average income-wise, Hunt County's affordability crisis stems from expensive rents and mortgages, not low wages.

Highest costs in the peer group

Hunt County's 20.3% rent-to-income ratio matches Hudspeth County's as the worst in this eight-county comparison, ranking 2.2 points above Texas's 18.1% state average. With median rent at $1,184—23% above the state average of $963—Hunt County renters face genuine affordability strain.

Most expensive rent in the region

Hunt County's median rent of $1,184 towers over Howard County ($993), Jack County ($968), and Houston County ($873), making it the region's priciest rental market. Combined with elevated mortgage costs ($1,112 monthly), Hunt County represents the high end of housing expenses across all eight counties.

Hunt County's affordability squeeze

Renters pay $1,184 monthly and homeowners pay $1,112—the region's highest costs in both categories—against median income of $70,112 annually. This means housing claims 20.3% of renter income and 19% of owner income, leaving little margin for savings or unexpected expenses.

Hunt County: premium pricing territory

Only relocate to Hunt County if you're moving for a job that justifies the region's premium housing costs or seeking its specific community amenities. Compare your current monthly housing payment against Hunt's $1,184 rent and $1,112 ownership costs; if they're similar or lower, staying put likely makes financial sense.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hunt County

via IncomeByCounty

Hunt County households earn near national average

Hunt County's median household income of $70,112 sits within $4,643 of the national median of $74,755, placing it in the upper-middle range of U.S. counties. This proximity to national norms suggests a balanced, mainstream economic profile.

Above Texas average income earners

At $70,112, Hunt County exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737 by $5,375, ranking it among the stronger-earning counties statewide. Per capita income of $32,446 also surpasses the state average of $33,197.

Competitive earnings in a strong region

Hunt County's $70,112 income ranks among the top earners in this county group, nearly matching Howard County ($71,457) and leading Houston County ($54,563). This consistency reflects stable employment and economic health compared to more challenged regions.

Housing costs require careful budgeting

A rent-to-income ratio of 20.3% means housing is moderately affordable, though a median home value of $210,900 is high relative to household income. Buyers must carefully evaluate mortgage affordability, as home prices approach three times the annual median income.

Build wealth through strategic homeownership

With income near $70,000 and home values around $210,000, Hunt County residents who secure favorable mortgages can build equity through homeownership. Combining real estate appreciation with retirement savings and employer benefits creates a solid path to long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hunt County

via CrimeByCounty

Favorable Safety Ratings Near Dallas

Hunt County maintains a total crime rate of 1,693.0 per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 97.3, indicating a secure environment.

Hunt County Outperforms State Crime Averages

The county's safety score of 97.3 is higher than the Texas average of 96.8. Data from 21 reporting agencies ensures a highly accurate and comprehensive picture of local public safety.

Steady Safety Compared to Neighbors

Hunt County's total crime rate of 1,693.0 is nearly identical to Hutchinson County's rate of 1,646.0. It remains much safer than Howard County, where total crime rates exceed 3,000 per 100,000 people.

Monitoring Elevated Violent Crime Rates

While property crime is low at 1,216.6, the violent crime rate of 476.4 per 100,000 residents sits above the state average of 341.3. Property crime still makes up over 70% of total reported incidents.

Deterring Property Theft with Smart Tech

With 21 agencies monitoring the area, police response is active, but property crime remains the primary concern. Automated lighting and doorbell cameras provide essential layers of defense for local households.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hunt County

via HealthByCounty

Hunt County outperforms U.S. health

Hunt County's life expectancy of 74.2 years falls slightly below the U.S. average of 78.9 years, but its 20.6% poor/fair health rate tracks better than many comparable rural counties. The county demonstrates stronger health outcomes than regional peers despite modest resource constraints.

Close to Texas average for health

Hunt County's 74.2-year life expectancy mirrors the Texas average of 74.3 years, placing it in the middle tier statewide. The county performs above average on self-reported health status compared to other Texas counties.

Best primary care access locally

With 27 primary care providers per 100K, Hunt County leads nearby Houston County (14 per 100K) and trails Jack County (34 per 100K) in physician density. Mental health provider access at 86 per 100K substantially exceeds Houston County (41 per 100K), supporting comprehensive behavioral health treatment.

Insurance and access both solid

Hunt County's uninsured rate of 18.9% is below the state average of 19.8%, and strong provider availability means insured residents can access routine care. This combination positions Hunt County as a regional health access leader.

Leverage Hunt County's resources

Hunt County residents benefit from robust provider networks—use this advantage by scheduling preventive care appointments. If uninsured, the county's low uninsured rate suggests effective enrollment efforts; contact local clinics for marketplace assistance.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hunt County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust System of Forty-Three Schools

Hunt County features an extensive education network of 43 schools across ten different districts. With 19,486 students enrolled, the county supports 18 elementary, 10 middle, and 13 high schools. This diverse infrastructure accommodates a rapidly growing population in the region.

Exceptional Graduation Rates Across Districts

Hunt County achieves a 95.0% graduation rate, far surpassing the national average of 87%. Despite a lower per-pupil expenditure of $6,296 compared to the state average, the county maintains a solid school score of 54.6. This indicates high efficiency and strong student success outcomes.

Greenville ISD and Royse City Lead the Way

Greenville ISD is the largest district, serving 5,422 students across 11 schools. Royse City High School is the single largest campus in the county with 2,526 students. Charter school options are limited, with only one such campus representing 2.3% of the county's total schools.

A Blend of Rural and Town Lifestyles

The county offers a diverse mix of 31 rural schools and 12 town-based campuses. Average school size is 453 students, but this varies wildly from small rural sites to large suburban-style high schools. Whether you prefer a quiet country school or a large town campus, Hunt County provides both.

Invest in a Home Near Top-Performing Schools

Strong graduation rates make Hunt County a prime destination for families looking to settle in North Texas. The variety of districts, from Greenville to Caddo Mills, offers diverse options for every homebuyer. Check out the latest listings to find your place near these successful school systems.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hunt County

via RiskByCounty

Hunt County ranks as high-risk nationally

Hunt County scores 82.19 on the composite risk scale, significantly exceeding the national average and earning a relatively moderate risk rating. This elevated score places the county in the higher tier of natural disaster exposure across the United States.

Highest-risk among North Texas counties

At 82.19, Hunt County substantially exceeds Texas's state average composite risk of 49.00, ranking as one of the state's higher-risk counties. The county's score reflects a dangerous combination of tornado, flood, wildfire, and earthquake exposure.

Standout risk in Northeast Texas

Hunt County's composite risk of 82.19 markedly exceeds neighboring Fannin, Lamar, and Collin counties, making it a notable hotspot for natural hazard exposure in the region. The tornado risk of 96.47 alone surpasses virtually all surrounding counties.

Tornados create the greatest threat

Tornado risk reaches an extreme 96.47, positioning Hunt County as one of Texas's most tornado-prone areas and a focal point of severe spring weather. Flood risk at 71.72 and wildfire risk at 76.91 create additional seasonal hazards, while earthquake risk at 62.47 adds background seismic exposure.

Multi-hazard insurance strategy essential

Hunt County residents should prioritize comprehensive homeowners insurance with explicit wind and hail coverage to address the severe tornado threat, plus separate flood insurance to cover inundation risk. Storm shelter construction or accessibility should also be part of household safety planning.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hunt County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer and Wetter Than the National Median

Hunt County averages a warm 66.0°F annually, significantly exceeding the national median temperature. This humid subtropical climate supports a lush landscape with 46.0 inches of annual precipitation.

A Typical Slice of Texas Warmth

The county's average temperature of 66.0°F sits just above the Texas state average of 65.5°F. While its heat is standard for the region, its 46.0 inches of rain makes it much wetter than the state average of 31.9 inches.

Humid Conditions Compared to Dry West Texas

Unlike the arid regions to the west, Hunt County experiences high humidity and frequent rainfall. Its 46.0 inches of annual rain places it among the greener counties in the northeast Texas region.

Sizzling Summers and Mild Winter Breezes

Summers are intense with 97 days reaching 90°F or higher and a July average of 85.6°F. Winters remain mild with an average of 47.5°F and a negligible 0.4 inches of annual snowfall.

Prioritize Cooling and Moisture Management

Residents should invest in high-efficiency HVAC systems to manage the 97 annual extreme heat days. Moisture-resistant building materials and proper drainage are essential given the high 46.0-inch annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hunt County

via SoilByCounty

The fertile Alfisols of Hunt County

Hunt County soil boasts a pH of 6.71, sitting very close to the national median of 6.5. These Alfisols represent some of the more balanced soils in the state, being less alkaline than the Texas average of 7.09. This neutral chemistry provides a versatile foundation for a wide range of agricultural activities.

Rich clay loam textures

The soil is classified as a clay loam, consisting of 32.7% clay, 31.8% silt, and 26.5% sand. This balanced composition offers excellent nutrient retention while providing more structure than sandy soils. The high clay content helps the soil hold onto fertilizers, though it can become heavy when wet.

Above average growing potential

Organic matter content stands at 1.71%, which is higher than the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.142 in/in is also superior to the state average, meaning the soil stores water effectively for crops. These factors contribute to the county's respectable soil score of 44.4.

Reliable drainage for farming

Dominant soils are well-drained, which is ideal for preventing root rot in crops and ornamental plants. The county belongs to hydrologic group C, indicating a moderate rate of water transmission when the soil is thoroughly wet. This combination supports consistent plant growth and predictable building conditions.

Hardiness Zone 8b gardening

In USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, Hunt County is a prime location for tomatoes, pecans, and vibrant wildflowers. The clay loam soil provides the deep support needed for fruit trees and summer vegetables alike. Dig in and take advantage of these balanced, high-performing Texas soils.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hunt County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions Near National Averages

Hunt County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 47.7, nearly reaching the national average of 50.0 and far exceeding the Texas state average of 31.7. This Zone 8b county offers some of the most hospitable conditions for lawn care in the region. Growing a lush lawn is much more achievable here than in neighboring western counties.

Ideal Rainfall and Moderate Heat

Annual precipitation of 46.0 inches sits perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for healthy turf. While the county still faces 97 days of extreme heat, this is lower than the state average of 105 days. A robust 6,444 growing degree days ensure a long, vigorous season for warm-season grasses.

Perfect pH in Clay Loam

The soil pH is an ideal 6.71, which falls right in the sweet spot for nutrient availability. The texture is a well-drained clay loam composed of 32.7% clay and 26.5% sand. This balance provides excellent structure that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Managing Seasonal Dry Spells

Hunt County has seen 16 weeks of drought over the past year, with 42.8% of the area currently in severe drought. Because the whole county is abnormally dry, mulching grass clippings is essential to help the soil retain its natural moisture. These conditions are manageable compared to the 100% severe drought seen elsewhere in the state.

A Prime Spot for Zoysia

Zone 8b and ideal soil pH make this county perfect for high-end grasses like Zoysia or St. Augustine. Start your projects after the last frost on March 18 to take full advantage of the long growing season. Your lawn has until November 16 before the first fall frost brings dormancy.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hunt County's county score?
Hunt County, Texas has a composite county score of 31.5 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 Hunt County rank among counties in Texas?
Hunt County ranks #204 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 Hunt County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Hunt County is $2,736, with an effective tax rate of 1.30%. This earns Hunt County a tax score of 20.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hunt County?
The median household income in Hunt County, Texas is $70,112 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hunt County earns an income score of 66.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hunt County, Texas a good place to live?
Hunt County scores 31.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #204 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Hunt 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 Hunt 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.