countyscore
51.2
County Score
Safety 87.8Disaster Risk 72.1Income & Jobs 69.9

County Report Card

About Lipscomb County, Texas

Outperforming the National Median

Lipscomb County earns a composite score of 51.2, placing it above the national median of 50.0. This indicates a high quality of life that exceeds most counties in the United States.

One of Texas' Hidden Gems

With a score of 51.2, Lipscomb County far exceeds the Texas state average of 41.9. It stands out as a top-tier rural destination within the state's diverse geography.

Excellence in Safety and Income

The county boasts an elite Safety Score of 87.8 and a strong Income Score of 69.9. Residents enjoy a high median household income of $71,442 and a robust Risk Score of 72.1.

Tax Burdens and Water Scarcity

A low Tax Score of 18.5 is driven by a high effective tax rate of 1.363%. Additionally, a Water Score of 17.6 suggests that environmental resource management is a secondary concern for the area.

Perfect for High-Earning Rural Seekers

Lipscomb County is an ideal match for high-earning individuals who value safety and financial security above all else. It offers a rare combination of high incomes and low crime in a rural setting.

2040608010018.55887.828.64469.972.117.648.4Tax18.5Cost58Safety87.8Health28.6Schools44Income69.9Risk72.1Water17.6Weather48.451.2/100
This county
National avg
4 above average4 below average

Lipscomb County DNA

Foverall

How Lipscomb County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Lipscomb County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (87.8/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (17.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
18.5-33.5
Cost
58+10
Safety
87.8+32.8
Health
28.6-21.4
Schools
44-10
Income
69.9+18.900000000000006
Risk
72.1+25.099999999999994
Water
17.6-40.4
Weather
48.4
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Think property taxes are too high in Lipscomb County?

Many homeowners in Lipscomb County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$128,400

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$807/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$128,400/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,280/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $71,442/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Ochiltree County
Texas
39.6
Hemphill County
Texas
53.4
Beaver County
Oklahoma
53.2
Ellis County
Oklahoma
54.6
Roberts County
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64.4
Harper County
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58.8
Roger Mills County
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58.7
Hansford County
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57.9

Deep Dives

Lipscomb County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Lipscomb County

via TaxByCounty

Lipscomb County taxes above national median

At 1.363% effective rate, Lipscomb County's tax burden exceeds the national norm and ranks in the higher half nationally. The median tax of $1,750 falls short of the national median of $2,690, but the rate itself is steeper than most counties.

Ranks above Texas state average

Lipscomb County's 1.363% effective rate tops Texas's state average of 1.276%, making it one of the higher-taxing counties in the state. The median tax of $1,750 runs about $443 below the state median, reflecting lower home values rather than lower rates.

Highest rates among regional peers

Lipscomb County's 1.363% rate exceeds both Liberty County (1.251%) and Limestone County (1.187%) nearby. It ranks as one of the steeper tax burdens in this area of the state.

What Lipscomb County homeowners pay yearly

On a median home valued at $128,400, Lipscomb County residents pay roughly $1,750 annually in property taxes. Including mortgage taxes, the total reaches approximately $2,147 per year.

Know your right to challenge assessments

With higher tax rates in play, it's especially important to verify your home's assessed value against market comparables. The appraisal district must document its valuation methods, and you can request a formal review if the assessment appears inflated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lipscomb County

via CostByCounty

Lipscomb leads the region on affordability

Lipscomb County renters spend just 13.6% of household income on rent, substantially beating the national average and standing among the most affordable U.S. counties. At $807/month with a median household income of $71,442, housing costs sit remarkably low relative to earnings.

Texas's affordability champion in this group

Lipscomb's 13.6% rent-to-income ratio crushes the Texas state average of 18.1%, making it one of the state's most renter-friendly counties. Rents run $156 below the state median, and residents enjoy significantly higher median income, creating a rare affordability sweet spot.

Unmatched value across the region

Lipscomb's 13.6% rent-to-income ratio outpaces Liberty (19.2%), Limestone (17.2%), and Lubbock (21.5%), delivering the region's tightest housing-cost squeeze. At $807/month rent and $795/month for owners, Lipscomb offers twin bargains few rural Texas counties match.

Rent and mortgages run nearly equal

Lipscomb renters pay $807/month while homeowners with median home value of $128,400 pay $795/month—nearly identical despite home values being among the region's lowest. This affordability extends across housing types, leaving residents more income for savings, healthcare, and education.

Lipscomb is the region's affordability pick

If maximum housing affordability matters most, Lipscomb County is your best bet—housing consumes the smallest slice of income in this entire cluster. Plan your move here if you value both cost savings and above-average local earnings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lipscomb County

via IncomeByCounty

Lipscomb keeps pace with America

Lipscomb County's median household income of $71,442 sits just 5% below the national median of $74,755, making it one of the strongest earners among the eight counties profiled. The relatively small $3,313 gap reflects robust local employment and wages.

Above Texas average income

Lipscomb's $71,442 median household income exceeds Texas's state average of $64,737 by roughly $6,700, positioning the county in the upper third of Texas counties. Per capita income of $34,127 also surpasses the state average of $33,197.

Lipscomb leads the regional pack

Lipscomb County outearns all seven peer counties, with the next-closest being Llano County at $65,636. The $5,800+ income advantage reflects stronger local industries and economic activity in the Texas Panhandle.

Best affordability in the group

Lipscomb boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio at 13.6%—well below the 30% affordability threshold—and a median home value of $128,400. Higher income combined with lower housing costs creates the most favorable financial flexibility in this county cohort.

Maximize wealth-building advantage

Lipscomb residents enjoy the best position to invest aggressively, with above-average income and below-average housing costs freeing up capital. Maximize tax-deferred savings in 401(k)s and IRAs, then consider real estate or index fund investments to accelerate wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lipscomb County

via CrimeByCounty

Lipscomb is One of America's Safest

Lipscomb County boasts an elite safety score of 99.6, indicating an exceptionally secure community. Its total crime rate of 263.3 per 100,000 is nearly nine times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the Pack in Texas

Lipscomb County's 99.6 safety score far exceeds the Texas average of 96.8. With a total crime rate of just 263.3, it ranks as one of the safest jurisdictions in the entire state.

Lipscomb Sets the Regional Standard

The county's crime rate is a fraction of the state average of 2,052.5 per 100,000. It offers a level of peace and security that is rarely matched by surrounding rural counties.

Minimal Crime Across All Categories

Both violent crime (98.7) and property crime (164.6) are remarkably rare in Lipscomb County. In practical terms, crime is an infrequent event for the vast majority of the population.

Maintaining Lipscomb's Safety Record

While crime is very low, staying vigilant helps keep the community safe. Participating in neighborhood watch efforts and keeping doors locked ensures the county remains a Texas leader in security.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Lipscomb County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Schooling in the Panhandle

Lipscomb County operates one of the smallest school systems in Texas, with just four public schools serving 639 students. The infrastructure is divided among three districts, focusing on K-12 and specialized school formats.

Higher Spending in a Challenging Environment

The county invests $8,711 per student, which exceeds the state average of $7,498, yet the graduation rate sits at 81.8%. The composite school score of 52.9 is roughly in line with the national median, suggesting localized academic successes despite the lower graduation figures.

Local Control Across Three Districts

Booker ISD is the largest district in the county, serving 343 students, followed by Follett ISD and Darrouzett ISD. Every school in the county is a traditional public institution, as there are no charter schools currently available.

The Ultimate Rural Education Experience

All four schools are classified as rural, with a very small average size of 160 students per campus. Follett School is the largest facility with 184 students, while Darrouzett Schools offer a highly personalized environment with only 112 students.

Quiet Living with Personalized Schooling

For those who value small class sizes and high per-pupil investment, Lipscomb County offers a unique rural lifestyle. Home buyers here benefit from schools where every teacher knows every student’s name.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lipscomb County

via RiskByCounty

Lipscomb County: Very Low Risk

Lipscomb County scores just 27.89 on the composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and sitting 43% below the Texas state average of 49.00. This makes Lipscomb one of Texas's safest counties for natural disaster exposure, though wildfire risk presents a notable exception.

Lipscomb's Safe Standing in Texas

Lipscomb County ranks among Texas's lowest-risk counties overall, with a composite score of 27.89 that reflects minimal exposure to floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, and hurricanes. The county's risk profile is dramatically better than most Texas peers.

Lipscomb Among the Panhandle

Lipscomb County (27.89) is substantially safer than all nearby counties, including Leon County (58.30), Llano County (70.39), and Liberty County (79.52). Its very low risk aligns more closely with Loving County (0.03), Texas's lowest-risk county, and contrasts sharply with Lubbock County (96.25) to the south.

Lipscomb's One Main Threat

Wildfire risk (84.57) stands out dramatically in Lipscomb County, representing the county's only significant natural hazard exposure. All other hazard types—flood (4.36), tornado (29.83), earthquake (18.54), and hurricane (16.73)—remain minimal.

Focused Protection for Lipscomb Homes

Lipscomb County residents should prioritize wildfire insurance or a comprehensive homeowners policy with wildfire coverage, particularly if living near grasslands or rangeland. Standard flood and hurricane insurance remains affordable if you're risk-averse, but the county's overall exposure is among the lowest in Texas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Lipscomb County

via WaterByCounty

Low Violation Count Still Triggers Grade F

Lipscomb County has recorded 4 health violations over five years, resulting in a Grade F for water compliance. While the raw number is low, the rate of 156.6 per 100,000 residents reflects localized challenges compared to the national average.

Local Waterways Lack Federal Assessment Data

There are currently no assessed water bodies for Lipscomb County in the federal §303(d) reporting system. The health of the county's watersheds remains unclassified in the most recent reporting cycle.

Specific Monitoring Targets Pesticides and Organics

Eight monitoring sites across the county have collected 655 measurements in the last five years. Unlike many neighbors, this county sees frequent testing for organics and pesticides alongside standard physical measurements.

Wolf Creek Approaches Zero Flow Conditions

Wolf Creek at Lipscomb is currently at 0 cfs, representing only 3% of its long-term mean discharge. This near-total lack of flow across the 697-square-mile drainage area indicates an acute water shortage.

Testing Recommended for Stagnant Water Sources

With Wolf Creek effectively stopped at 0 cfs and a Grade F compliance record, residents using local water sources should be highly cautious. Stagnant conditions can increase pollutant concentrations, making regular testing or filtration advisable.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lipscomb County

via WeatherByCounty

A Northern Texas Climate Profile

Lipscomb County records an annual average temperature of 57.0°F, which sits slightly above the national median of approximately 54°F. This high plains region experiences a semi-arid climate that is significantly cooler than the Texas state average.

One of the Coolest Texas Counties

The county's average temperature of 57.0°F is 8.5 degrees cooler than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. This makes it one of the most temperate regions in the state, contrasting sharply with the subtropical heat found in South Texas.

Consistency Across the Northern Panhandle

Lipscomb shares its 57.0°F average with neighboring Ochiltree and Hemphill counties, maintaining a steady climate across the northeast Panhandle. It receives 22.4 inches of annual precipitation, which is drier than the 31.9-inch state average but typical for this high-altitude region.

Cold Winters and Toasty Summers

The county sees a significant seasonal swing, from a 34.8°F January average to a 79.9°F July peak. Residents experience 77 extreme heat days annually and receive 10.2 inches of snow, far exceeding the state's minimal snowfall norms.

Prepare for Snow and Sun

Homeowners must prioritize insulation and winter-ready plumbing to handle the 36.2°F average winter lows. Outdoor planning should also account for 77 days of temperatures over 90°F during the peak summer months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lipscomb County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Mollisols of the Panhandle

Lipscomb County is dominated by Mollisols, the deep, fertile soils often associated with historic grasslands. The average pH of 7.57 is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 but typical for the high plains.

Balanced clay loam texture

The soil contains 46.2% sand and 21.3% clay, providing a balanced texture known as clay loam. This mix ensures excellent nutrient retention while the 32.5% silt content keeps the soil relatively easy to manage.

Excellent moisture storage

This county boasts an available water capacity of 0.150 in/in, significantly higher than the Texas average of 0.133. Though organic matter is slightly low at 1.53%, the high water retention makes it prime territory for dryland farming.

Efficient and well-drained

These soils are classified as well-drained and fall into hydrologic group B, indicating a moderate infiltration rate. This makes the land very responsive to rainfall and less prone to the standing water issues found in eastern counties.

Hardy crops for zone 7a

In hardiness zone 7a, native grasses and winter wheat thrive alongside home garden favorites like kale and root vegetables. Your well-drained soil is a huge advantage, so start planning your spring beds now!

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lipscomb County

via LawnByCounty

High Plains Lawn Care in Zone 7a

Lipscomb County presents a lawn difficulty score of 40.9, which is significantly better than the Texas average of 31.7. Being in Hardiness Zone 7a, the county experiences cooler winters than the rest of the state, requiring a different approach to turf management. While easier than many Texas counties, it still falls below the national median due to its semi-arid climate.

Cooler Summers but Limited Annual Moisture

With only 22.4 inches of annual precipitation, local lawns fall short of the 30-50 inches typically required for optimal growth. However, the county only faces 77 extreme heat days, which is much lower than the state average of 105. This reduced heat stress means grass requires less water to survive the 4,379 growing degree days than it would elsewhere in Texas.

Managing Alkaline Clay Loam Soils

The local soil is somewhat alkaline with a pH of 7.57, sitting above the ideal 7.0 threshold and potentially limiting some nutrient availability. The texture is a well-drained clay loam with a balanced mix of 21.3% clay and 46.2% sand. Regular applications of sulfur may be needed to gradually lower the pH and help your turf stay vibrant.

Stable Conditions Amidst Semi-Arid Trends

Lipscomb County spent 15 weeks in drought over the last year, but currently reports 0% severe drought coverage. Because rainfall is naturally low, residents should prioritize drought-tolerant species and use rain barrels to supplement municipal water. Consistent monitoring is key, as 100% of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry.

Shorter Seasons Favor Resilient Grasses

Buffalo grass or Blue Grama are excellent native choices that thrive in the Panhandle's drier, alkaline soil. The spring frost typically lingers until April 27, and the first fall frost arrives early on October 27, making for a shorter growing window. Focus your efforts on late spring seeding once the soil has warmed up to ensure strong root establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lipscomb County's county score?
Lipscomb County, Texas has a composite county score of 51.2 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 Lipscomb County rank among counties in Texas?
Lipscomb County ranks #56 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 Lipscomb County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Lipscomb County is $1,750, with an effective tax rate of 1.36%. This earns Lipscomb County a tax score of 18.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lipscomb County?
The median household income in Lipscomb County, Texas is $71,442 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lipscomb County earns an income score of 69.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lipscomb County, Texas a good place to live?
Lipscomb County scores 51.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #56 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Lipscomb 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 Lipscomb County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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