countyscore
47.6
County Score
Cost of Living 74.4Disaster Risk 65.5Schools 57.3

County Report Card

About Morris County, Texas

Approaching the national median score

Morris County earns a 47.6 composite score, nearly reaching the national median of 50.0. It performs better than many of its East Texas counterparts in overall livability.

Outperforming the Texas state average

With a score of 47.6, Morris County comfortably beats the Texas average of 41.9. It stands out as a high-value option within the state's diverse geography.

Superior affordability and environmental safety

Housing is exceptionally affordable, earning a cost score of 74.4 with a median home value of $110,200. The county also provides a safe environment with a strong risk score of 65.5.

Income and healthcare limitations

The local economy produces a low income score of 25.2, with household medians around $55,082. Healthcare availability also lags, resulting in a low health score of 16.5.

Ideal for retirees and remote workers

Morris County is perfect for those with outside income who want to maximize their housing budget. Its combination of low costs and low environmental risk makes it a hidden gem for quiet living.

Score breakdown

Tax26.7Cost74.4Safety55.8Health16.5Schools57.3Income25.2Risk65.5Water49.3Weather37.4
🏛26.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠74.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼25.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡55.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤16.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡65.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧49.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤37.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱37.1
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

Titus County
Texas
40.7
Camp County
Texas
44.5
Cass County
Texas
47.9
Franklin County
Texas
44
Bowie County
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34.5
Marion County
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Upshur County
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Red River County
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49.7

Deep Dives

Morris County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Morris County

via TaxByCounty

Morris stays slightly below national average

At 1.178%, Morris County's effective tax rate is 8% below the national median of 1.276%, placing it in the lower half nationally. Homeowners here enjoy a lighter property tax load compared to most U.S. counties.

Below Texas's typical rate

Morris County's 1.178% rate runs below Texas's state average of 1.276% by 0.098 percentage points. This makes Morris one of Texas's more tax-friendly counties relative to state norms.

Among the lowest in its region

Morris County's 1.178% rate beats most neighbors: only Nacogdoches County (0.925%) and Motley County (1.097%) tax lower. Moore County (1.526%) and Nolan County (1.511%) both significantly exceed Morris's burden.

Median home costs about $1,298 yearly

With a median home value of $110,200, Morris County homeowners pay approximately $1,298 annually in property taxes. This is $1,392 less than the national median, reflecting both lower-valued homes and a below-average tax rate.

Even lower rates are possible through appeals

If your Morris County home is assessed above fair market value, you have the right to appeal. Many property owners successfully challenge their assessments and recover thousands in overpaid taxes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Morris County

via CostByCounty

Morris provides solid national affordability

Morris County renters spend 17.9% of income on housing, nearly matching the Texas average while outpacing affordability stress seen across much of America. The $55,082 median household income is below the national average, yet housing costs remain manageable through genuinely low rents.

Below-average costs in Texas context

Morris County's 17.9% rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below Texas's 18.1% average, placing it among the state's more affordable options. The median home value of $110,200 offers homeownership opportunities for working-class families.

Morris competes on affordability grounds

Morris County's $824 median rent is the lowest among regional peers, undercutting Moore County ($894) and far below Montgomery ($1,471), while its $55,082 income falls between Motley County and Nolan County. This combination makes Morris one of the region's truly budget-friendly options.

Morris's housing cost reality check

Renters allocate $824 monthly while homeowners pay just $528, offering homeownership at remarkable affordability levels. These modest costs represent under one-fifth of the $55,082 median household income, leaving room for essential expenses and modest savings.

Morris County for minimum-wage stretchers

Morris County delivers the region's most accessible entry point to homeownership and rental stability for lower-income households. If your current housing costs exceed 20% of income, Morris's 17.9% ratio could transform your financial picture—though verify job availability in your field.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Morris County

via IncomeByCounty

Morris Faces Significant Income Gap

Morris County's median household income of $55,082 falls nearly $20,000 below the national median of $74,755—a 26% shortfall. This substantial gap underscores the economic challenges facing one of Texas's lower-income rural counties.

Among Texas's Lower-Income Counties

Morris County's $55,082 median household income lags the Texas state average of $64,737 by about $9,700. With per capita income of just $27,503 against a state average of $33,197, Morris County residents face limited earning opportunities locally.

Morris Struggles Against Regional Peers

Morris County earns less than most neighboring counties, including Montague ($62,818), Moore ($61,325), and Motley ($62,857). Only Nacogdoches ($51,528) and Newton ($41,044) fall below Morris, reflecting the county's position among Texas's economically challenged rural areas.

Housing Remains Affordable Despite Low Income

Morris County's 17.9% rent-to-income ratio keeps housing costs manageable, with median home values of just $110,200. While housing is accessible, the county's low incomes limit households' ability to save beyond basic expenses.

Focus on Earnings Growth First

Morris County households should prioritize workforce development and income growth before aggressive wealth building. Explore training programs, remote work opportunities, and community economic initiatives to increase earning potential—the foundation for all future financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Morris County

via CrimeByCounty

Morris County Boasts Exceptional Safety Score

Morris County boasts an impressive safety score of 98.4, making it one of the more secure spots on the map. Its total crime rate of 1,008.9 per 100,000 is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

A Leader in East Texas Safety

With a safety score of 98.4, Morris significantly exceeds the Texas state average of 96.8. The county's total crime rate is also remarkably lower than the state's average of 2,052.5 per 100,000.

Morris Stands Out Against Nacogdoches

Morris is significantly safer than nearby Nacogdoches County, which reports a total crime rate of 1,607.3. It stands out as a regional leader in public safety metrics.

Remarkably Low Property Crime Rates

The county sees a property crime rate of just 683.7, though violent crime sits at 325.2. While the violent rate is close to the national average, the overall risk remains exceptionally low.

Protecting Your Home in Morris County

High safety scores are a point of pride, but maintaining them requires active community participation. Investing in smart home technology can help keep Morris County's property crime rates at these record lows.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Morris County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy significantly below U.S. average

Morris County residents have a life expectancy of 71.3 years, about 5 years shorter than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. One in five report poor or fair health, suggesting widespread chronic conditions.

Ranking among lower-performing Texas counties

Morris County's 71.3-year life expectancy trails Texas's 74.3-year state average by 3 years. The county ranks among the lowest in the state for life expectancy outcomes.

Comparable challenges to Montague County

Morris County's 71.3-year life expectancy is nearly identical to Montague's (71.7), and both counties significantly underperform neighbors like Navarro County (73.8 years). Limited provider networks may be part of the story.

Healthcare access challenges persist

Morris County's uninsured rate of 16.7% is below the state average, but only 25 primary care providers per 100,000 residents serve the population. Mental health providers total 33 per 100,000, leaving gaps in behavioral health care.

Ensure you have coverage in place

Check whether you qualify for Medicaid expansion coverage or ACA subsidies at healthcare.gov—many Morris County residents are eligible for plans costing $0 to $50 monthly. Regular care through insurance can catch health issues early and improve long-term outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Morris County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Tight-Knit East Texas School System

Morris County maintains a small educational footprint with just seven public schools serving 1,846 students. The system is divided into two districts comprising three elementary, two middle, and two high schools. This limited number of campuses fosters a closely connected environment for local families.

Reliable Results in a Small System

The county achieves a 94.6% graduation rate, which is higher than the state average and well above the 87.0% national benchmark. Per-pupil spending stands at $6,704, while the composite school score matches the state average of 55.3. These numbers indicate a stable educational environment that successfully moves students toward graduation.

Daingerfield and Pewitt Lead the Way

Daingerfield-Lone Star ISD is the larger of the two districts, operating four schools for 1,013 students. Pewitt CISD follows closely, managing three schools with a total enrollment of 833. There are no charter schools in the county, meaning education is entirely managed by these two local districts.

Small Campuses and Rural Roots

Schools here are intimate, with an average enrollment of only 264 students per campus. The largest facility is Pewitt Elementary with 405 students, while Daingerfield Junior High serves just 228. This small-scale setting allows for personalized attention in both town and rural school locales.

Quiet Living Near Proven Schools

Families looking for a rural lifestyle will find Morris County’s small-school environment and high graduation rates appealing. Homes in Daingerfield or the Pewitt area offer a community-oriented educational experience. Use the county's consistent academic performance as a guide for your next home search.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Morris County

via RiskByCounty

Morris: Very Low Risk Nationwide

Morris County scores just 34.54 on the national composite risk scale, earning a "Very Low" rating and placing it well below Texas's state average of 49.00. This East Texas county ranks among the safer communities nationally for multi-hazard disaster exposure.

Safest Counties in Texas by Composite Score

Morris ranks in the lowest tier of Texas counties for natural disaster risk, benefiting from its distance from the Gulf Coast and relative isolation from major urban areas. The county's rural character and forested landscape create a lower-risk profile across most hazard categories.

Protected by Rural East Texas Location

Morris's score of 34.54 positions it as one of the safer counties in the piney woods region of East Texas, outperforming more populated neighbors to the east and south. The county's tornado risk at 79.26 is its primary concern, but overall exposure remains substantially below state averages.

Tornadoes and Hurricanes Present Real Risk

Morris County faces tornado risk at 79.26 and hurricane risk at 49.31, with wildfire exposure at 64.63 creating seasonal wildfire-related concerns. Flood risk remains low at 24.24, and earthquake exposure is minimal at 38.96.

Standard Insurance Plus Tornado Prep

Morris residents should maintain standard homeowners insurance with windstorm coverage to protect against tornado damage, the county's primary hazard. Develop a severe weather plan with a safe room or basement shelter, and ensure your insurance is reviewed annually to reflect property value changes.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Morris County

via WeatherByCounty

A Rainy and Warm East Texas Hub

Morris County averages 64.7°F annually, nearly 12 degrees warmer than the national median. It is a high-rainfall area, receiving 47.1 inches of precipitation each year.

Abundant Rainfall Above the State Mean

While its temperature is close to the 65.5°F state average, its rainfall is 15 inches higher than the 31.9-inch Texas mean. This makes it one of the lusher parts of the state.

Drier but Similar Heat to Montgomery

Morris receives 47.1 inches of rain, slightly less than Montgomery County's 49.3 inches. Both counties experience nearly 100 days of extreme heat each year.

Steamy Summers and Moderate Winters

July averages 83.1°F, part of a summer season that sees 96 days of extreme heat. Winters are mild at 46.8°F and produce very little snowfall, averaging 0.4 inches.

Focus on Moisture and Heat Control

The 47.1 inches of rain require well-maintained gutters and moisture-resistant building materials. Prepare for 96 days of extreme heat with efficient cooling systems.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Morris County

via SoilByCounty

A unique and unmapped soil profile

Morris County's specific soil taxonomic order and pH levels are not recorded in current datasets. Local conditions in East Texas can vary widely, requiring a private soil test for precision.

Texture remains a local discovery

Data for sand, silt, and clay percentages is currently unavailable for this area. Most local growers find a mix of sandy and loamy soils typical of the Piney Woods region.

Untapped potential in the soil

Official organic matter and water capacity figures are missing from the current record. While we cannot compare it to the state average of 1.66%, the region's high rainfall often supports lush growth.

Observing water movement on the land

The drainage class and hydrologic group for the county are currently unspecified. Observe how your site handles heavy rain to understand its unique drainage and infiltration characteristics.

Zone 8b offers a long season

Hardiness zone 8b provides a warm climate perfect for long-season vegetables and vibrant azaleas. Embrace the humid East Texas air and start your garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Morris County

via LawnByCounty

East Texas Hurdles in Morris County

Morris County has a lawn difficulty score of 37.1, placing it above the state average but below the national benchmark. This Zone 8b area requires specific attention to heat and drought management.

Ideal Rainfall with Significant Heat

The county receives a robust 47.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is nearly perfect for lawn health. However, 96 extreme heat days and 6,021 growing degree days create a high-demand environment for mowing and pest control.

Monitoring Local Soil Health

Specific soil data is limited for Morris County, making a professional soil test your first essential step. Understanding your local pH and texture will help you tailor your fertilization to the county's 47.1 inches of annual rain.

Battling Total County Severe Drought

Currently, 100% of Morris County is under severe drought conditions, a major increase in pressure from the 16 weeks of drought seen last year. Lawns here currently require strict water conservation and efficient irrigation to survive.

Starting Strong in Zone 8b

Bermuda and Zoysia are the most resilient choices for the local climate and 96 heat days. You can safely start your lawn once the threat of frost passes around March 8.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Morris County's county score?
Morris County, Texas has a composite county score of 47.6 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 Morris County rank among counties in Texas?
Morris County ranks #83 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 Morris County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Morris County is $1,298, with an effective tax rate of 1.18%. This earns Morris County a tax score of 26.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Morris County?
The median household income in Morris County, Texas is $55,082 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Morris County earns an income score of 25.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Morris County, Texas a good place to live?
Morris County scores 47.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #83 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Morris 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 Morris 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.