countyscore
27.8
County Score
Cost of Living 51.6Schools 51.5Soil Quality 47

County Report Card

About Matagorda County, Texas

Matagorda County Faces Livability Challenges

Matagorda County earns a composite score of 27.7, trailing significantly behind the national median of 50.0. The score reflects high environmental and safety risks that impact daily life.

Struggling to Match Texas Benchmarks

The county’s 27.7 score is well below the Texas state average of 41.9. It ranks among the more challenged counties in the state, particularly regarding public safety and disaster readiness.

Stable Schools and Affordable Housing

Education is a relative strength with a school score of 51.5. Housing remains accessible for many, with a cost score of 51.6 and a median home value of $162,200.

High Risk and Safety Concerns

A low safety score of 6.0 and a risk score of 19.7 are the county's most pressing issues. These numbers suggest a high vulnerability to crime and natural environmental hazards.

Suited for Industry-Focused Residents

Matagorda County is best for those with established ties to local industry who value affordable homeownership. Residents should be comfortable managing the risks associated with its coastal location.

Score breakdown

Tax23Cost51.6Safety6Health13.5Schools51.5Income25.4Risk19.7Water5.1Weather27.6
🏛23
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠51.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼25.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤13.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓51.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡19.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧5.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤27.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨47
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41
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

Matagorda County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Matagorda County

via TaxByCounty

Matagorda's taxes nearly match national median

At 1.255%, Matagorda's effective tax rate sits just slightly below the national median of 1.276%, making it a fairly typical American county for property tax burden. The median tax of $2,035 is roughly 76% of the national median of $2,690.

Matagorda aligns closely with Texas average

Matagorda's 1.255% effective rate nearly mirrors the Texas state average of 1.276%, placing it firmly in the middle of the state's tax landscape. At $2,035, the median property tax falls just below the state median of $2,193.

Matagorda sits in the regional middle tier

Matagorda's 1.255% rate exceeds the lightest taxed counties like Marion (0.787%), Mason (0.815%), and Martin (0.884%), but trails heavier-taxing areas like McLennan (1.527%) and McMullen (1.992%). It represents a middle-ground option in Southeast Texas.

Median Matagorda homeowner pays $2,035 yearly

On Matagorda's median home value of $162,200, residents pay approximately $2,035 in annual property taxes—about $170 per month. With mortgage and other obligations included, the total reaches $2,761 per year.

Matagorda homeowners should verify their valuations

Overassessment affects properties in every county, regardless of local tax rates, and Matagorda is no exception. If you believe your assessment is inflated, the appraisal protest process is your right—and can yield immediate savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Matagorda County

via CostByCounty

Matagorda rents strain limited incomes

Matagorda County renters spend 21.7% of their income on housing—20% above the Texas state average and significantly above national comfort levels. The median household income of $55,174 combined with $998 median rent creates real affordability challenges for working families in this Gulf Coast county.

Among Texas's most strained renters

Matagorda County's 21.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks in the bottom tier statewide, making it one of Texas's most difficult markets for renters. Only a handful of Texas counties face comparable affordability pressure.

High rents on low-income foundation

Matagorda's $998 median rent is above the Texas average and highest among its regional peers, while the median income of $55,174 is among the lowest in the group. Homeownership offers relief: the median monthly cost of $666 and home value of $162,200 make buying substantially cheaper than renting.

Housing squeezes Matagorda budgets hard

A typical Matagorda renter earning $55,174 annually devotes roughly $1,198 to housing, consuming 26% of gross income—a burden that leaves little for savings or emergencies. Homeowners fare dramatically better, with $666 monthly costs representing just 14% of income, making ownership the clear affordability advantage.

Matagorda buyers have the advantage

If relocating to Matagorda, prioritize homeownership: renting consumes nearly 22% of income while buying costs just 14%, offering substantial monthly savings. Renters considering Matagorda should seriously evaluate comparable markets like Marion County before committing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Matagorda County

via IncomeByCounty

Matagorda County lags national income median

At $55,174, Matagorda County's median household income trails the national median of $74,755 by 26%, reflecting economic challenges common to coastal agricultural regions. The county ranks below most U.S. counties in income performance.

Below Texas average by 15%

Matagorda County earns $55,174 versus the state average of $64,737, placing it in the lower third of Texas counties. The per capita income of $30,189 falls below state average, indicating limited individual earning capacity and concentrated employment challenges.

Lower-income among regional peers

Matagorda County ($55,174) ranks sixth among the eight counties, above only Marion ($47,447) and Maverick ($51,270). The county sits $3,000 below Lynn County ($57,411), highlighting economic stress across this coastal belt.

Housing costs exceed comfort zone

At 21.7%, Matagorda County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds healthy thresholds, meaning housing consumes more than one-fifth of median earnings. A median home value of $162,200 represents a significant stretch for households earning the county median, limiting disposable income.

Focus on financial stability first

Matagorda County residents should prioritize building 3-6 months emergency savings before investing, given tight housing costs. Once stabilized, even $25-50 monthly contributions to retirement accounts compound substantially over 20-30 years.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Matagorda County

via CrimeByCounty

Higher Crime Rates Along the Gulf Coast

Matagorda County has a safety score of 94.9, which falls below the national average. Its total crime rate of 3,244.0 per 100,000 is significantly higher than the U.S. mark of 2,385.5.

Trailing the Texas Average for Safety

With a safety score of 94.9, the county is less secure than the average Texas county, which scores 96.8. Ten different reporting agencies are active here, managing a crime rate that exceeds the state average by over 1,000 points.

Facing Greater Security Challenges Than Neighbors

Matagorda's crime rate of 3,244.0 is over 50% higher than the Texas state average of 2,052.5. This suggests that residents face more frequent public safety issues than those in neighboring inland counties.

Property Crime Dominates Local Incidents

Property crime is a major factor at 2,645.4 per 100,000, well above the national average. Violent crime is also elevated, sitting at 598.6 compared to the national rate of 369.8.

Take Active Steps to Protect Your Property

Given the higher rates of property crime, homeowners should prioritize burglar alarms and heavy-duty locks. Neighborhood watch programs can also be effective tools in reducing crime in these coastal communities.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Matagorda County

via HealthByCounty

Matagorda County moderately below U.S. average

Matagorda County residents live to 73.6 years—0.4 years below the U.S. average of 74.0 years. With 27.7% reporting poor or fair health compared to the national 17% benchmark, the county reflects a significant burden of chronic disease and wellness challenges.

Slightly below state average on life span

Matagorda County's 73.6-year life expectancy falls 0.7 years short of Texas's 74.3-year average, while its 21.6% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 19.8%. Both indicators suggest persistent healthcare access and affordability pressures across the population.

Moderate primary care, strong mental health

Matagorda County has 36 primary care providers and 55 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—mid-range for this county group and suggesting more robust infrastructure than the most rural neighbors. Mental health capacity, in particular, provides meaningful behavioral health support to residents.

Chronic disease burden requires engagement

The 27.7% poor/fair health rate is the second-highest in this county group, suggesting widespread chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Provider availability is moderate but may not fully address the magnitude of disease burden; community health programs and preventive care are critical.

Insurance opens doors to preventive care

Matagorda County residents should enroll in Medicaid, CHIP, or marketplace plans at healthcare.gov to secure preventive services and chronic disease management. With nearly one in five uninsured, coverage expansion would strengthen access to the primary and mental health care infrastructure already in place.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Matagorda County

via SchoolsByCounty

Broad Options Across Matagorda Districts

Matagorda County features a diverse landscape of 18 public schools organized into five different districts. This infrastructure supports 7,084 students with a wide range of elementary, middle, and high school options.

Competitive Performance in the Coastal Bend

The county maintains a 91.5% graduation rate, nearly matching the state average of 91.6%. Per-pupil spending of $7,121 falls slightly below the Texas average but supports a solid school score of 54.6.

Bay City ISD Leads the Region

Bay City ISD is the largest provider, serving 3,579 students across five schools. Other major districts include Palacios ISD with 1,300 students and Tidehaven ISD with 1,045 students, providing ample choice for residents.

Town Centers and Rural Outposts

The area offers a mix of 10 town schools and 8 rural campuses, catering to different lifestyle preferences. Bay City High School is the largest facility with 1,031 students, while the average school size across the county is 394 students.

Explore Homes in Diverse District Zones

With multiple districts and various locale settings, Matagorda County offers plenty of choices for growing families. Use school quality as your guide to finding the perfect home in Bay City, Palacios, or the surrounding areas.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Matagorda County

via RiskByCounty

Matagorda County faces above-average national risk

Matagorda County's composite risk score of 80.34 significantly exceeds the national average, earning a "Relatively Low" rating despite substantial exposure to multiple hazards. The county's Gulf Coast location creates exceptional vulnerability to hurricanes (95.62) and coastal flooding (68.00). This above-average risk profile demands serious insurance and preparedness planning from all residents.

Faces significantly higher risk than most Texas counties

Matagorda County's score of 80.34 substantially exceeds Texas' state average of 49.00, placing it among the higher-risk counties in the state. The county's coastal geography creates hazard exposure that few inland Texas counties experience. Only a handful of other Texas coastal counties rival Matagorda's risk profile.

Highest-risk among nearby Gulf Coast counties

Matagorda County (80.34) faces notably higher composite risk than nearby Maverick County (64.15), which also registers substantial risk. The county's direct Gulf exposure far exceeds inland East Texas options like Madison (34.89) and Marion (29.17). Among coastal counties, Matagorda represents one of Texas' most hazard-exposed locations.

Hurricane threat dominates all other hazards combined

Hurricane risk reaches 95.62 in Matagorda County—the highest possible exposure and a critical concern for all residents and property owners. Flooding (68.00) and wildfire (73.70) represent secondary but still substantial threats driven by coastal geography and warm-season conditions. Tornado risk (59.70) also deserves preparedness attention, though it trails hurricane concerns significantly.

Hurricane insurance and storm hardening are essential

Matagorda County residents must secure comprehensive homeowners insurance with explicit windstorm and flood coverage, as standard policies often exclude these critical protections in coastal areas. Storm-resistant roof installation, elevated mechanical systems, and impact-resistant windows should be prioritized renovations. Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private carriers is essential given the 68.00 flood risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Matagorda County

via WeatherByCounty

A humid subtropical coastal climate

Matagorda County averages a warm 69.9°F, far exceeding the national median temperature. Its coastal location provides a humid environment with high annual rainfall.

Warmer than the Texas norm

At 69.9°F, the county is 4.4 degrees warmer than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. It ranks as one of the consistently warmer coastal counties in the state.

The wettest in the region

The county receives a substantial 45.5 inches of rain annually, far outpacing neighbor Medina County's 29.8 inches. Despite the warmth, it only sees 72 days over 90°F, fewer than its inland neighbors due to Gulf breezes.

Stable temperatures and rare snow

Winters are very mild with a January average of 53.8°F and just 0.3 inches of annual snow. Summers are humid with an average of 82.7°F, but the heat is tempered by the nearby ocean.

Manage humidity and rainfall

Dehumidifiers are essential here to manage the humid air and 45.5 inches of annual rain. Residents should prioritize storm preparation and corrosion-resistant materials for outdoor structures near the coast.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Matagorda County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced Soils on the Gulf Coast

Matagorda County boasts a near-neutral average pH of 6.80, closely aligning with the national median of 6.5. This balanced pH makes the soil extremely versatile for a wide range of agricultural activities. It is significantly more balanced than the more alkaline soils found further inland.

Heavier Textures for Nutrient Storage

The soil is a heavy mix of 31.6% clay and 31.4% silt, with 37.0% sand rounding out the profile. This high clay and silt content provides excellent nutrient retention and creates a fertile base for intensive farming. However, these heavier soils can become difficult to work when they are overly wet.

Rich Organic Matter and High Potential

The organic matter content is an impressive 2.71%, far exceeding the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is 0.131 in/in, which is nearly identical to the state average. This combination makes Matagorda one of the more naturally fertile counties in the state.

Managing Water in Group D Soils

Classified as hydrologic group D, these soils have a very slow infiltration rate and high runoff potential. This is common in low-lying coastal areas where heavy clays and a high water table dominate the landscape. Farmers often use drainage ditches and raised rows to prevent waterlogging.

Bountiful Gardens in Zone 9b

With a tropical-leaning hardiness zone of 9b, Matagorda County is ideal for citrus, rice, and year-round vegetable gardening. The high organic matter supports vigorous growth for almost anything you plant. Try your hand at growing lemons or lush tropical ornamentals in this coastal haven.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Matagorda County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Advantage for Texas Lawns

Matagorda County features a lawn difficulty score of 41.0, making it one of the more favorable regions in the state. This Zone 9b location benefits from coastal moisture and avoids the extreme scores of inland Texas. While easier than the state average of 31.7, it remains slightly more challenging than the national median of 50.0.

Moderate Heat and Solid Rain

With 45.5 inches of annual rain, the county hits the target for ideal lawn moisture. Residents enjoy only 72 days of extreme heat, which is significantly lower than the Texas average of 105 days. An impressive 7,441 growing degree days ensure a very long active season for tropical and warm-season grasses.

Balanced pH and Heavy Clay

The soil pH is a near-perfect 6.80, sitting comfortably in the 6.0-7.0 ideal range. However, a high clay content of 31.6% can lead to compaction and slower drainage compared to sandy neighbors. Regular aeration is recommended to ensure oxygen reaches the roots in this dense soil profile.

Managing Coastal Drought Cycles

Despite good rain totals, 31 weeks of drought last year have left 65.1% of the county in severe conditions. Lawns here must be resilient to manage the 100% abnormally dry status currently affecting the region. Utilizing rain barrels can help capture heavy coastal downpours for use during these dry stretches.

A Long, Warm Growing Window

In Zone 9b, the frost-free period stretches from February 5 all the way to mid-December. St. Augustine and Seashore Paspalum are fantastic choices that handle the coastal humidity and salt air well. The extremely long growing season allows for multiple opportunities to overseed or repair turf.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Matagorda County's county score?
Matagorda County, Texas has a composite county score of 27.8 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 Matagorda County rank among counties in Texas?
Matagorda County ranks #227 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 Matagorda County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Matagorda County is $2,035, with an effective tax rate of 1.25%. This earns Matagorda County a tax score of 23/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Matagorda County?
The median household income in Matagorda County, Texas is $55,174 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Matagorda County earns an income score of 25.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Matagorda County, Texas a good place to live?
Matagorda County scores 27.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #227 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Matagorda 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 Matagorda 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.