countyscore
29.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 91.3Water Quality 57.5Schools 51.8

County Report Card

About Kaufman County, Texas

Kaufman Trails the National Median Score

With a composite score of 29.4, Kaufman County sits significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a community facing several structural headwinds compared to typical American counties.

Behind the Texas State Average

Kaufman's overall livability score of 29.4 trails the Texas state average of 41.9. Despite rapid growth, the county ranks in the lower tier of the state's 254 counties for overall quality of life metrics.

Strong Incomes Drive Local Growth

The county's standout metric is its high income score of 91.3, supported by a median household income of $88,606. Residents also benefit from a decent school score of 51.8, providing a solid foundation for families.

High Taxes and Living Costs

Affordability is a major hurdle here, with a tax score of 6.5 and a cost score of 7.8 indicating a high burden on residents. The effective tax rate of 1.732% and a median rent of $1,408 create significant financial pressure.

Best for High-Earning Commuters

Kaufman County is a strong fit for established professionals who prioritize high household earnings and can manage steep property taxes. It offers a suburban lifestyle for those who value income growth over low living costs.

Score breakdown

Tax6.5Cost7.8Safety32.4Health29.3Schools51.8Income91.3Risk23.8Water57.5Weather34.2
🏛6.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼91.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡32.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤29.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓51.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡23.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧57.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤34.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱47
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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Texas
40.6
Ellis County
Texas
30.8
Dallas County
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26.2
Henderson County
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Hunt County
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Van Zandt County
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Navarro County
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Rains County
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Deep Dives

Kaufman County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Kaufman County

via TaxByCounty

Kaufman's tax rate tops national average

At 1.732%, Kaufman County's effective property tax rate runs 87% higher than the national median of 0.92%. This places Kaufman in the top 25% of U.S. counties by tax burden, meaning homeowners here pay significantly more per dollar of home value than most Americans.

Among Texas's highest-taxing counties

Kaufman's 1.732% rate exceeds Texas's state average of 1.276% by 36%, ranking it in the upper quartile statewide. Only about one in four Texas counties taxes property as aggressively as Kaufman does.

Kaufman taxes harder than Hill Country peers

Kaufman's rate of 1.732% far exceeds neighboring Kerr County (1.093%) and Kendall County (1.202%), making it the priciest among comparable central Texas regions. A $285,000 home pays roughly $500 more annually in Kaufman than in Kerr County.

The median Kaufman homeowner pays $5,036

On a median home valued at $290,800, Kaufman residents owe $5,036 in annual property taxes. With mortgage obligations and school debt included, that figure climbs to $5,925—well above the national median tax of $2,690.

Consider appealing your tax assessment

Many Kaufman homeowners overpay because their properties are assessed above fair market value. Tax appeal deadlines are coming—a successful challenge could reduce your annual bill by hundreds of dollars with no cost to file.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Kaufman County

via CostByCounty

Kaufman rents eat 19% of income

Renters in Kaufman County spend 19.1% of their income on housing, slightly above the national norm. At $1,408/month median rent against an $88,606 median household income, Kaufman households earn $13,851 more than the national median—but pay a premium on housing costs.

Above Texas average on affordability

Kaufman's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks slightly worse than Texas's 18.1% state average, though median rents here ($1,408) are 46% higher than the state median ($963). The county sits in the middle tier of Texas counties for housing affordability.

Pricier than Kent, cheaper than Kendall

Kaufman's $1,408 rent falls between nearby Kent County ($856) and Kendall County ($1,576). Owner costs show a similar pattern: Kaufman's $1,608 monthly payment sits between Kent's $655 and Kendall's $1,717.

Nearly a third of income to housing

Combined renter and owner housing costs consume roughly 28% of Kaufman household income ($3,016 in monthly payments against $7,384 in monthly earnings). The county's above-average income helps offset housing costs that would strain lower-earning households elsewhere.

Kaufman: balance and commute distance

If you're relocating from higher-cost metros, Kaufman offers reasonable rents and strong incomes for Dallas-area proximity. Compare against Kent County to the west for deeper affordability, or Kendall County to the south if you want suburban amenities near San Antonio.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kaufman County

via IncomeByCounty

Kaufman households earn well above average

Kaufman County's median household income of $88,606 runs 18% higher than the U.S. median of $74,755, positioning the county in the upper tier of American earnings. This strong income base reflects a mix of manufacturing, logistics, and growing suburban Dallas commuters anchoring the local economy.

Among Texas's most prosperous counties

At $88,606, Kaufman's median household income exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737 by 37%, placing it in the top earnings bracket statewide. The county's per capita income of $34,131 also surpasses the state average of $33,197, signaling broad-based economic strength.

Outpacing surrounding counties significantly

Kaufman's $88,606 median income handily beats neighboring Navarro County and rural Ellis County peers. Only Kendall County ($110,498) in this region outearns Kaufman, reflecting its proximity to Austin's tech boom.

Housing costs stay manageable here

Kaufman residents dedicate just 19.1% of household income to rent, well below the 30% affordability threshold and matching the national standard. With a median home value of $290,800, homeownership remains accessible for this income level, though buyers should still plan carefully.

Build on Kaufman's economic momentum

With earnings 18% above the national median and solid housing affordability, Kaufman households have real capacity to invest, save, and plan for retirement. Consider meeting with a financial advisor to maximize retirement contributions, diversify investments, and leverage the county's economic stability for long-term wealth building.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kaufman County

via CrimeByCounty

Kaufman County Outshines National Safety Averages

Kaufman County boasts a high safety score of 97.5, reflecting a secure environment for its residents. Its total crime rate of 1,586.4 per 100,000 residents sits well below the national average of 2,385.5.

A Top Performer in Texas Safety

The county's safety score exceeds the Texas state average of 96.8, marking it as a relatively safe haven. Law enforcement data from 18 reporting agencies provides a comprehensive and reassuring look at local security.

Lower Crime Rates Than State Peers

Compared to the Texas state average crime rate of 2,052.5 per 100K, Kaufman maintains a much lower frequency of reported incidents. This makes the county a safer alternative to many neighboring regions in the Dallas metro area.

Property and Violent Crimes Remain Low

Property crime accounts for 1,351.4 incidents per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 235.0. Both figures are significantly lower than the national rates of 2,015.7 and 369.8, respectively.

Stay Proactive to Maintain High Safety

While rates are low, maintaining awareness is key to keeping property crime in check. Implementing smart home security and community watch programs helps preserve this county's strong safety standing.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Kaufman County

via HealthByCounty

Kaufman's life expectancy edges ahead

Kaufman residents live to 74.8 years on average, slightly longer than the U.S. average of 74.5 years. However, 21.2% report poor or fair health—above the national average of 17.8%—suggesting that extra years don't necessarily mean healthier ones.

Ranking above Texas average

At 74.8 years, Kaufman's life expectancy ranks in the middle-upper tier statewide, beating Texas's 74.3-year average by half a year. The county's uninsured rate of 16.8% is notably better than Texas's 19.8%, indicating stronger health coverage overall.

Solid ground among nearby counties

Kaufman outperforms neighboring Kenedy County on life expectancy and uninsured rates, though it lags behind Kendall County's 79.8-year expectancy. Primary care access (21 per 100K) remains a local challenge compared to Kendall's 86 per 100K and Kerr's 81 per 100K.

Uninsured rates lag provider access

One in six Kaufman residents (16.8%) lacks health insurance, creating barriers to preventive care despite adequate mental health providers at 107 per 100K. The county's 21 primary care providers per 100,000 residents means many residents face waits or travel for routine checkups.

Get insured, stay healthy

If you're uninsured in Kaufman County, now is the time to explore your options through the Health Insurance Marketplace or local community health centers. Coverage can catch health problems early and save you thousands in emergency care costs down the road.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Kaufman County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rapidly Growing School Infrastructure

Kaufman County maintains a robust educational network of 54 public schools serving 37,642 students across seven districts. The landscape includes 26 elementary, 13 middle, and 12 high schools to support the area's families. While the county features four alternative schools, there are currently no charter schools operating within its borders.

High Graduation Rates Despite Leaner Spending

The county boasts an impressive 96.6% graduation rate, significantly outperforming the Texas average of 91.6% and the national mark of 87.0%. This success comes despite a per-pupil expenditure of $5,755, which is lower than both the state average of $7,498 and the national average of $13,000. The composite school score of 54.3 sits just below the Texas average of 55.3.

Forney ISD Leads the County Districts

Forney ISD serves as the educational anchor, managing 19 schools and educating 16,211 students. Other major contributors include Crandall ISD with 6,003 students and Terrell ISD with 5,208 students. These districts provide the core stability for the county's growing student population.

A Mix of Town and Rural Settings

The educational experience here is split between 28 town-based schools and 25 rural sites, offering varied environments for students. North Forney High School is the largest campus with 2,502 students, while the average school size across the county is 724. High schools like Forney High and Crandall High also serve as massive hubs with over 1,700 students each.

Invest in a Future Near Top Schools

Families looking for high graduation rates and a mix of town and rural living will find Kaufman County an attractive destination. As you explore local real estate, consider how the proximity to major campuses like those in Forney ISD can impact long-term value. Start your home search today in a county that consistently hits its graduation targets.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kaufman County

via RiskByCounty

Kaufman ranks above US average risk

Kaufman County's composite risk score of 76.18 places it well above the national average, signaling elevated exposure to natural disasters. The county earns a "Relatively Low" rating overall, but this masks significant tornado and wildfire vulnerabilities that warrant preparation.

In Texas, Kaufman faces higher-than-average hazards

With a score of 76.18 versus Texas's state average of 49.00, Kaufman ranks among the riskier counties statewide. Tornadoes and wildfires pose the most substantial threats relative to other Texas counties.

Kaufman outpaces surrounding counties in risk

Neighboring counties like Kendall (65.49) and Kent (1.08) carry lower composite risk scores than Kaufman's 76.18. This positions Kaufman as a relative hotspot for severe weather in its region, particularly for tornado activity.

Tornadoes and wildfires dominate here

Tornado risk scores 84.61—among the highest in the state—while wildfire risk reaches 79.96, both well above Kaufman's overall composite score. Severe convective storms are the defining weather threat residents face year-round.

Fortify your home against violent storms

Strong tornado and severe storm insurance coverage is essential; verify your homeowner's policy includes comprehensive hail and wind damage protection. Consider reinforcing your garage doors, roof connections, and identifying a safe interior room as a shelter during tornado season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kaufman County

via WeatherByCounty

Wet and warm Eastern Texas climate

Kaufman County's 65.5°F annual average is approximately 10 degrees warmer than the national median. It is a high-precipitation area with lush vegetation and hot summers.

The embodiment of the Texas average

Kaufman’s 65.5°F average temperature perfectly matches the Texas state average. However, its 40.9 inches of annual rain is nearly 10 inches higher than the state norm.

A rainy outlier in the region

Kaufman is significantly wetter than Johnson County and nearly 15 inches rainier than Jones County. It stays slightly warmer and much more humid than Kendall County.

Steamy summers and rain-heavy months

Summer averages 83.0°F with 97 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winters are mild at 47.6°F, and snowfall is rare, totaling just 0.1 inches annually.

Rain preparedness and AC upkeep

With over 40 inches of annual rain, heavy-duty gutter systems and rain gear are essentials here. Plan for high cooling costs during the 97 days of extreme summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Kaufman County

via SoilByCounty

Limited Data on Kaufman's Soil Identity

Specific soil pH and taxonomic data are currently unavailable for Kaufman County. Regionally, Texas soils average a pH of 7.09, which sits slightly higher than the national median of 6.5.

Regional Characteristics Define the Ground

While specific sand and clay percentages are missing, this area is part of the Blackland Prairie, known for heavy clay. These soils typically hold moisture well but require careful timing for tilling to avoid compaction.

Boosting Fertility in the Prairie

No specific organic matter data is recorded for the county, though the state average is 1.66%. Local gardeners often aim for the national average of 2.0% by adding compost to improve the soil's natural growing potential.

Managing Water in the Landscape

Official drainage classes are not listed, but the region often faces slow infiltration rates. Homeowners should observe how water moves across their specific property before beginning any major construction or gardening projects.

Subtropical Success in Zone 8b

Kaufman County sits in Hardiness Zone 8b, which features a long, warm growing season. Native pecans and heat-tolerant vegetables like peppers thrive here once you establish a healthy soil foundation.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Kaufman County

via LawnByCounty

Kaufman's Manageable Lawn Landscape

A difficulty score of 47.0 means maintaining a lawn here is much easier than the Texas average of 31.7. This Zone 8b county sits just below the national difficulty median of 50.0.

Ample Rain Powers Growing Season

Kaufman receives 40.9 inches of annual rain, which fits perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for turf. These rains help sustain the lawn through 97 days of extreme heat and 6,272 growing degree days.

Regional Soil Needs Testing

Local soil data is limited, but the high annual precipitation suggests the need for proper grading to prevent pooling. Most North Texas yards require a basic test to determine if the soil hits the ideal 6.0-7.0 pH range.

Navigating Abnormally Dry Spells

The county spent 11 weeks in drought last year, and currently 100% of the area is abnormally dry. Smart irrigation is key as severe drought currently touches a small 0.7% of the county.

Seizing the March Planting Window

Bermuda and St. Augustine are excellent choices for this Zone 8b climate. Plan your seeding or sodding after the March 16 frost to take full advantage of the spring growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kaufman County's county score?
Kaufman County, Texas has a composite county score of 29.4 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 Kaufman County rank among counties in Texas?
Kaufman County ranks #219 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 Kaufman County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Kaufman County is $5,036, with an effective tax rate of 1.73%. This earns Kaufman County a tax score of 6.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kaufman County?
The median household income in Kaufman County, Texas is $88,606 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kaufman County earns an income score of 91.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kaufman County, Texas a good place to live?
Kaufman County scores 29.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #219 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Kaufman 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 Kaufman County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.