49.9
County Score
Disaster Risk 88.6Safety 72.7Schools 68

County Report Card

About Jack County, Texas

Nearly Hitting the National Median

Jack County earns a composite score of 49.9, making it virtually identical to the national median of 50.0. This score represents a balanced quality of life that reflects the American average. It is a well-rounded county that avoids many of the pitfalls of both urban and isolated rural areas.

A Top Performer in the State

Jack County significantly outperforms the Texas state average of 41.9 with its score of 49.9. It is a standout performer, offering a blend of safety and educational quality that is hard to find. It ranks among the more livable counties in the state's North Texas region.

Superior Safety and Low Risk

The county shines with a Risk Score of 88.6 and a Safety Score of 72.7. Local schools also perform well with a score of 68.0, and the median household income of $65,693 is solid. These numbers suggest a community that is both secure and economically viable.

High Taxes and Water Concerns

The Tax Score is a low 21.0, influenced by an effective tax rate of 1.296%. Water infrastructure is another area for growth, with a score of 21.9 in that dimension. Improving these services would be the next step in elevating the county's already high livability.

Perfect for the Balanced Family

Jack County is an excellent fit for families who want the safety and school quality of a suburb with a more rural feel. It offers a very high degree of security and a respectable income for its residents. It is a strong choice for those seeking a high-quality, mid-sized Texas lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax21Cost48.3Safety72.7Health27.3Schools68Income56.4Risk88.6Water21.9Weather41.9
🏛21
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠48.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼56.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡72.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
27.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓68
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
88.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧21.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤41.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨35.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱42.3
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

Jack County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jack County

via TaxByCounty

Jack County taxes exceed national median slightly

At 1.296%, Jack County's effective tax rate modestly exceeds the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the upper-middle tier of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $2,266 falls below the national median of $2,690.

Jack County ranks just above Texas average

Jack County's 1.296% effective rate nearly matches the state average of 1.276%, placing it right at the statewide norm. Homeowners pay $2,266 in median annual taxes versus the state average of $2,193.

Jack County taxes comparable to Hunt County

Jack County's 1.296% rate virtually mirrors Hunt County's 1.297%, making them the region's highest-taxing counties by rate. At $2,266 in median taxes, Jack County homeowners pay more than Houston, Irion, Howard, and Hudspeth counties but less than some higher-value jurisdictions.

What Jack County homeowners actually pay

The median Jack County home valued at $174,800 generates an estimated $2,266 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, expect $2,795; without, around $1,480.

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. In a county with above-average tax rates like Jack, filing a protest could yield meaningful savings at no cost.

Cost of Living in Jack County

via CostByCounty

Jack County offers balanced affordability

Jack County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national baseline, delivering solid housing affordability to residents despite slightly lower median household income of $65,693. This 12% income shortfall versus the national average is more than offset by restrained housing costs.

Below Texas state average burden

Jack County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio runs 0.4 points below Texas's 18.1% state average, placing it just at parity with the broader state market. Median rent of $968 sits just 0.5% above the state average of $963, reflecting a stable, typical Texas rental market.

Middle ground among peer counties

Jack County's 17.7% burden ranks better than Houston County (19.2%), Irion County (21.2%), Hunt County (20.3%), and Jackson County (19.6%), trailing only Hutchinson County (15.6%) and Howard County (16.7%). Its $968 rent places it squarely in the region's moderate-cost tier.

Jack County housing costs breakdown

Renters pay $968 monthly and homeowners pay $735, moderate costs across both categories, against median income of $65,693 annually. Housing claims 17.7% of renter income—a sustainable level that exceeds the comfortable threshold but remains manageable for household budgeting.

Jack County: solid middle option

If you're relocating and seeking stability without extreme affordability or premium costs, Jack County delivers with $174,800 median home values and moderate rent and ownership expenses. Compare your current housing burden against $968 rent; if you're above that threshold, Jack County could meaningfully improve your financial flexibility.

Income & Jobs in Jack County

via IncomeByCounty

Jack County slightly below national income

Jack County's median household income of $65,693 is $9,062 below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the middle range of U.S. counties. This moderate gap suggests Jack County households have reasonably stable, if not exceptional, earning power.

Slightly above Texas median income

At $65,693, Jack County exceeds Texas's state average of $64,737 by $956, ranking it among average-to-above-average earning counties statewide. Per capita income of $31,398 is slightly below the state average of $33,197.

Competitive with nearby counties

Jack County's $65,693 income is comparable to Hutchinson County ($65,470) and Jackson County ($61,752), placing it solidly in the middle of this regional peer group. This consistency suggests stable, moderate economic conditions across North Central Texas.

Housing costs moderate and manageable

A rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% is healthy and below the affordability threshold, indicating comfortable housing costs for most residents. However, a median home value of $174,800 represents a significant financial commitment for households earning $65,693.

Build equity through disciplined planning

Jack County residents with stable household income around $65,000 can pursue homeownership while maintaining savings for retirement and emergencies. A diversified approach combining home equity, retirement accounts, and modest stock investments creates sustainable wealth growth.

Safety in Jack County

via CrimeByCounty

A Model for National Public Safety

Jack County's total crime rate of 652.1 per 100,000 residents is 72% lower than the national average. This exceptional performance results in a safety score of 99.0.

One of the Highest Rated Counties in Texas

The safety score of 99.0 far exceeds the Texas state average of 96.8. Two reporting agencies provide consistent data that places the county well ahead of the state's crime rate of 2,052.5.

Stronger Safety Profile than Neighbors

Jack County's crime rate of 652.1 is roughly half that of Irion County. It remains one of the safest jurisdictions in the region, reporting far fewer incidents than neighboring Hunt County.

Low Rates Across All Crime Categories

Violent crime is rare at 128.1 per 100,000 residents, while property crime stands at 524.0. Both figures are just a fraction of the national averages of 369.8 and 2,015.7, respectively.

Preserving the Peace in Jack County

Residents enjoy high levels of safety, but simple home security remains a smart investment. Community awareness and basic security cameras help ensure the crime rate stays at these record lows.

Health in Jack County

via HealthByCounty

Jack County exceeds U.S. longevity

At 75 years, Jack County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 78.9 years... wait, that's incorrect. At 75 years, Jack County trails the U.S. average by nearly 4 years. However, its 21.4% poor/fair health rate is among the region's better performers.

Above Texas average for longevity

Jack County's life expectancy of 75 years outperforms Texas's 74.3-year average by 0.7 years, placing it in the top tier statewide. The county demonstrates health outcomes that exceed most regional peers.

Highest primary care density

Jack County leads the region with 34 primary care providers per 100K residents—significantly exceeding Hunt County (27 per 100K) and Houston County (14 per 100K). However, mental health provider availability at 23 per 100K ranks lowest among the eight counties, creating a gap in behavioral health services.

Coverage above average, care access mixed

Jack County's uninsured rate of 22.3% exceeds both the state average (19.8%) and peer counties like Hunt County (18.9%), despite strong primary care availability. This suggests some residents face barriers to insurance enrollment or affordability even where providers are plentiful.

Close your insurance gap

Jack County's uninsured rate is 2.5 points above state average—if you're uninsured, marketplace plans are available year-round for qualifying events. Reach out to local community health centers for enrollment assistance and cost estimates.

Schools in Jack County

via SchoolsByCounty

Six Schools Across Three Local Districts

Jack County features six public schools that serve a total of 1,661 students. The infrastructure includes two elementary, one middle, and two high schools, along with one K-12 campus. These schools are managed by three independent school districts.

Academic Excellence in North Texas

The county's 94.2% graduation rate is significantly higher than the national 87% average. School funding is also slightly above the state average at $7,545 per pupil, contributing to a strong school score of 56.9. These numbers reflect a well-supported and high-performing educational system.

Jacksboro ISD Leads with Majority Enrollment

Jacksboro ISD is the largest district, serving 1,083 students across three schools. Perrin-Whitt CISD and Bryson ISD support the remaining students in the county's rural corridors. Traditional public schools remain the only option here, as there are no charter schools.

A Mix of Rural and Town Campuses

The average school size in Jack County is 277 students, offering a blend of intimacy and resources. Four schools are located in rural areas, while two serve the town of Jacksboro. Jacksboro Elementary is the largest campus with 497 students, while smaller schools like Perrin Elementary serve 171.

Find Your Home Near Jack County Schools

With graduation rates nearly reaching 95%, Jack County is an excellent choice for education-minded homebuyers. The districts of Jacksboro, Bryson, and Perrin-Whitt offer a variety of community settings. Explore local real estate to find a home that fits your family's needs.

Disaster Risk in Jack County

via RiskByCounty

Jack County remains very low risk

Jack County scores 11.39 on the composite risk scale, placing it well below the national average and in the very low risk category. The score reflects a generally protected natural hazard environment despite some wildfire exposure.

Well below Texas average exposure

At 11.39, Jack County ranks significantly below Texas's state average composite risk of 49.00, positioning it among the state's lower-risk counties. The county's score represents roughly one-quarter of the state average, indicating substantially reduced disaster exposure.

Safe haven in North Central Texas

Jack County's composite risk of 11.39 makes it safer than most neighboring counties including Young, Wise, and Parker counties. The North Central Texas location benefits from moderate distance from major tornado alley and relative isolation from coastal storm systems.

Wildfire presents highest exposure

Wildfire risk at 86.23 represents Jack County's primary hazard concern, though it exists in isolation from other significant threats. Tornado risk at 41.38 and hurricane risk at 30.12 present secondary considerations, while flood and earthquake risks remain minimal.

Wildfire awareness with standard coverage

Jack County homeowners should verify their policies include wildfire coverage as a supplementary concern, though overall risk remains moderate. Standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection for the county's natural hazard profile.

Weather & Climate in Jack County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm and Variable Continental Climate

Jack County averages 63.5°F annually, placing it well above the national median temperature. It receives 32.9 inches of precipitation, balancing moderate rainfall with frequent sunny intervals.

Slightly Cooler Than the Texas Average

The county's 63.5°F average temperature is just below the state average of 65.5°F. Its precipitation of 32.9 inches almost perfectly mirrors the statewide average of 31.9 inches.

A Typical North Texas Weather Profile

Jack County experiences climate patterns very similar to its North Texas neighbors. It sees a modest 1.0 inch of snowfall annually, which is standard for this latitude in the state.

Intense Heat Days and Crisp Winters

Summer is dominated by 97 days of temperatures at or above 90°F, with July averaging 83.6°F. Winters are manageable, with a January average of 42.5°F and very little snow.

Plan for Sustained Summer Heat

With 97 extreme heat days annually, robust air conditioning and attic insulation are essential for comfort. Residents should also prepare for occasional winter freezes that can impact the 44.5°F average winter lows.

Soil Quality in Jack County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced Mollisols of North Texas

Jack County features Mollisols, which are typically dark, fertile soils often found under grasslands. The average pH is a neutral 7.08, matching the Texas state average and sitting just above the national median of 6.5. This creates a highly hospitable environment for most common North Texas vegetation.

The strength of clay loam

The soil is a clay loam made of 49.2% sand, 21.3% clay, and 29.6% silt. This nearly 50% sand content ensures the soil doesn't become too tight, while the clay provides necessary mineral richness. It offers a great balance of workability for builders and stability for farmers.

Steady fertility and water storage

Organic matter content is 1.69%, slightly outperforming the state average of 1.66%. The soil’s available water capacity of 0.137 in/in also beats the state average of 0.133. These metrics contribute to a solid soil score of 35.7, indicating reliable productivity.

Well-drained but runoff-prone

While the dominant soils are well-drained, the county is categorized in hydrologic group D. This indicates that while the surface may drain well, there is high runoff potential during heavy rains due to low infiltration in deep layers. Proper erosion control is vital for maintaining the health of these Mollisol surfaces.

Hardy gardening in Zone 8a

Jack County is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, a region where okra, peppers, and hardy roses thrive. The neutral pH and balanced texture make it easy to start a garden without major chemical adjustments. Claim your piece of the Cross Timbers and start planting today.

Lawn Care in Jack County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Growth Potential

Jack County has a lawn difficulty score of 42.3, which is significantly better than the Texas average of 31.7. Located in Hardiness Zone 8a, it offers a more balanced environment for homeowners than much of West Texas. While not as easy as the national average, it is a very productive zone for lawn enthusiasts.

Solid Rainfall and Standard Heat

The county receives 32.9 inches of rain annually, which sits right at the Texas average and within the ideal lawn range. With 97 extreme heat days, it is slightly cooler than the state average of 105. This combination allows for a standard mowing and watering schedule without constant crisis management.

Neutral Soils in Clay Loam

The soil pH is 7.08, almost perfectly neutral and ideal for most common lawn grasses. The well-drained clay loam is composed of 21.3% clay and 49.2% sand. This provides a stable foundation that balances water drainage and nutrient holding capacity exceptionally well.

Resilient During Dry Periods

Jack County has endured 16 weeks of drought over the past year, but currently has 0% severe drought. While the entire county is classified as abnormally dry, the baseline rainfall and good soil structure provide a buffer. Standard water conservation like morning irrigation will keep turf healthy through these periods.

Prime Window for Bermuda Grass

Bermuda grass thrives in these neutral clay loam soils and the Zone 8a climate. Plan your seeding or sodding for late March, once the March 28 frost date has passed. You have a long window for establishment before the first frost arrives on November 7.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jack County's county score?
Jack County, Texas has a composite county score of 49.9 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 Jack County rank among counties in Texas?
Jack County ranks #62 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 Jack County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Jack County is $2,266, with an effective tax rate of 1.30%. This earns Jack County a tax score of 21/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jack County?
The median household income in Jack County, Texas is $65,693 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jack County earns an income score of 56.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jack County, Texas a good place to live?
Jack County scores 49.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #62 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Jack 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 Jack County with other counties side by side.