countyscore
39.6
County Score
Disaster Risk 65.2Schools 62.2Weather & Climate 56.9

County Report Card

About Ochiltree County, Texas

Ochiltree nears the middle national tier

Ochiltree County earns a composite score of 39.6, remaining below the national median of 50.0 but showing strength in specific categories. It performs better than many rural neighbors in the Panhandle region.

Close to the Texas state average

The county's 39.6 composite score is just slightly behind the Texas average of 41.9. This indicates a quality of life that is relatively competitive within the state's diverse geography.

Resilient schools and low environmental risk

A risk score of 65.2 and a school score of 62.2 highlight the county's safe environment and solid educational system. Incomes remain healthy at $64,988, earning an income score of 54.4.

Health and tax burdens lag

The county sees lower marks in health at 17.0 and tax burden at 17.2, reflecting a 1.402% effective tax rate. These scores suggest limited healthcare access and higher local levies relative to income.

A solid pick for rural families

Ochiltree County is an excellent fit for families seeking a safe, disaster-resistant community with good schools. It offers a balanced lifestyle for those who appreciate small-town stability and reliable household earnings.

2040608010017.250.433.31762.254.465.245.556.9Tax17.2Cost50.4Safety33.3Health17Schools62.2Income54.4Risk65.2Water45.5Weather56.939.6/100
This county
National avg
1 above average4 below average

Ochiltree County DNA

Foverall

How Ochiltree County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Ochiltree County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (65.2/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (17.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
17.2-34.8
Cost
50.4
Safety
33.3-21.700000000000003
Health
17-33
Schools
62.2+8.200000000000003
Income
54.4
Risk
65.2+18.200000000000003
Water
45.5-12.5
Weather
56.9
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Ochiltree County?

Many homeowners in Ochiltree 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

$137,200

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$905/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$137,200/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$36,200/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $64,988/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

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Ochiltree County with Lyon County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

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Austin County
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Prince William County
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Tuscaloosa County
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Berrien County
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Nearby counties

Hansford County
Texas
57.9
Lipscomb County
Texas
51.2
Beaver County
Oklahoma
53.2
Roberts County
Texas
64.4
Hutchinson County
Texas
41.1
Texas County
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36.9
Hemphill County
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53.4
Seward County
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35.9

Deep Dives

Ochiltree County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ochiltree County

via TaxByCounty

Ochiltree's taxes run lean nationally

At 1.402% effective rate, Ochiltree County homeowners pay less than the national median of $2,690 annually—residents here fork over just $1,924. This puts the county in the bottom 30% of U.S. counties by tax burden, well below the national average.

Above average within Texas

Ochiltree's 1.402% effective rate edges above Texas's 1.276% state average, ranking it in the middle tier among all Texas counties. The median tax bill of $1,924 sits slightly below the state median of $2,193, reflecting the county's lower property values.

Similar to the Texas Panhandle

Ochiltree compares closely to neighboring Panhandle counties like Oldham (1.297% rate) and Parmer (1.566% rate), all within the same effective rate band. The $1,924 median tax is typical for this rural region's property values.

Your tax bill in Ochiltree

A homeowner with the county median home value of $137,200 pays roughly $1,924 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $2,738 when including additional fees.

Check if you're overassessed

Many Ochiltree County homeowners never review their property tax appraisal and may be paying more than they owe. Filing a simple appeal with your county appraisal district could lower your assessment and save you hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ochiltree County

via CostByCounty

Ochiltree renters beat national average

Ochiltree County renters spend just 16.7% of income on housing, nearly 3 full percentage points below the national median. This panhandle county offers surprisingly robust affordability relative to the rest of America.

Well below Texas rent burden

At 16.7%, Ochiltree's rent-to-income ratio outperforms Texas's 18.1% average and ranks among the state's more affordable counties. Median rent is a modest $905 monthly, well under the state's $963 median.

Cheapest rents in its region

Ochiltree's $905 rent undercuts Parmer County's $1,015 and Oldham County's $1,125, making it the most budget-friendly option for renters in the Texas panhandle. The affordability advantage compounds when factoring in lower median home values too.

Housing takes under 1/6 of income

Ochiltree's median household income of $64,988 paired with $905 rent means renters spend just $10,860 yearly on housing. Homeowners pay $761 monthly in ownership costs, or about 14% of gross income—excellent affordability across both rental and ownership markets.

Great affordability, small-town living

Ochiltree offers some of Texas's best housing value for renters and buyers alike, ideal if you prioritize affordability over urban amenities. Compare your current rent-to-income ratio: if it exceeds 18%, this panhandle county could meaningfully improve your financial flexibility.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ochiltree County

via IncomeByCounty

Ochiltree County approaches national income parity

Ochiltree County's median household income of $64,988 sits 13% below the U.S. median of $74,755, though it performs better than many rural Texas peers. The county's agricultural and energy sectors generate middle-class opportunities despite smaller population scale.

Right at Texas median income level

Ochiltree County nearly matches the Texas state median of $64,737, sitting just $251 above the statewide average. This positioning puts the county in the middle of Texas's economic distribution.

Competitive with similar-sized counties

Ochiltree County's $64,988 income aligns closely with Palo Pinto County ($64,972) and outpaces Panola County ($62,593). These similarities reflect comparable regional economies built on natural resources and agriculture.

Housing costs are lowest here

Ochiltree County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio at 16.7%, well below the 30% sustainability threshold, meaning housing consumes the smallest share of household earnings. This affordability advantage provides more financial flexibility for savings and other needs.

Capitalize on housing affordability

Ochiltree County's low housing costs free up income for investments—consider maximizing retirement contributions or starting a side business to accelerate wealth building. The county's affordable real estate also makes homeownership an accessible path to long-term wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ochiltree County

via CrimeByCounty

Ochiltree County: A Panhandle Safety Leader

Ochiltree County earns a high safety score of 97.5, reflecting a secure environment for its residents. Its total crime rate of 1,561.9 per 100,000 residents is 34% lower than the national average.

Outperforming the Texas Safety Average

The county ranks well above the Texas safety average score of 96.8. With total crime rates significantly below the state average of 2,052.5, Ochiltree stands as one of the quieter areas in the region.

Regional Comparison of Crime Rates

Ochiltree is safer than nearby Nolan County, boasting lower rates in both violent and total crime categories. Two reporting agencies work together to maintain these competitive safety metrics across the county.

Understanding Local Crime Distribution

Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,179.0 per 100,000 residents, while violent crime sits at 382.9. These numbers represent a relatively stable environment, though violent crime slightly edges out the national average.

Maintaining a Secure Household

Strong community bonds and basic home security measures help maintain the county's high safety rating. Motion-activated lights and neighborhood watch participation are effective ways to deter property-related incidents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Ochiltree County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Learning in Perryton

Ochiltree County features a streamlined education system with just six public schools serving 2,008 students. The entire county's education landscape is managed through a single school district, ensuring a highly unified community approach.

Elite Graduation Rates in the Panhandle

Students here excel with a 97.0% graduation rate, far exceeding both the Texas average of 91.6% and the national average of 87.0%. The county's school score of 56.3 also sits above the state average, showing high returns on a $6,583 per-pupil investment.

One District, One Community

Perryton ISD serves as the sole educational provider for the county, managing all six schools from kindergarten through high school. There are currently no charter schools in the county, making the local public district the central hub for all 2,008 enrolled students.

A Close-Knit Town Atmosphere

With five schools located in town and one in a rural setting, the average school size is a manageable 335 students. Perryton High School is the largest campus with 620 students, while specialized facilities like Perryton Kinder serve just 199 children.

Put Down Roots Near Perryton Schools

Families seeking high-performing schools and a tight-knit community feel often look to the Perryton area. The county's exceptional graduation rates make it a compelling choice for buyers prioritizing long-term educational success.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ochiltree County

via RiskByCounty

Ochiltree ranks among America's safest

With a composite risk score of 34.86 and a Very Low rating, Ochiltree County is substantially safer than the national average. The county scores 29% below Texas's state average of 49.00, offering residents a genuinely low-risk environment.

Panhandle county with minimal exposure

Ochiltree ranks in the safest tier of Texas counties, with risk levels far below the state median. Its geographic position in the Texas Panhandle shields it from coastal and major storm corridors, creating a protective natural advantage.

Safer than most surrounding counties

Ochiltree (34.86) sits slightly below Oldham County (9.70) but well below Palo Pinto (55.22) and Panola (55.44). Among Texas Panhandle neighbors, Ochiltree ranks as one of the least hazardous places, though wildfire risk remains a localized concern.

Wildfire and tornado are isolated threats

Wildfire risk reaches 76.24 in Ochiltree, marking the county's primary natural disaster exposure, followed by tornado at 45.13. Flood, hurricane, and earthquake risks all remain minimal, with scores under 32, making targeted wind and fire preparedness the main focus.

Emphasize wildfire and wind coverage

Verify that your homeowners policy includes full coverage for wildfire and windstorm damage, as both present localized risks in Ochiltree. Standard coverage usually applies, but confirm deductibles and exclusions with your agent, particularly if you live near grassland or have timber on your property.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Ochiltree County

via WaterByCounty

Grade D Reflects Two Health Violations

Ochiltree County holds a Grade D rating after recording two health violations in the past five years. Its violation rate of 23.1 per 100K is far below the Texas average of 581.9, suggesting relatively stable compliance for its population size. However, any health violation indicates a need for continued infrastructure oversight.

Watershed Assessments Currently Unavailable

The water bodies within Ochiltree County have not yet been assessed under the federal Clean Water Act §303(d) standards. No data is available regarding the share of impaired streams or lakes in this reporting cycle. This gap in the ATTAINS database means local surface water health remains unclassified.

Focus on Organics and Pesticides

Monitoring is limited to five sites, which have collected 829 measurements over the last five years. These efforts focus heavily on organics and pesticides, reflecting the local agricultural landscape. While the site count is low, the specialized measurement groups provide critical data on chemical runoff.

Lack of Live Streamflow Data

There is currently no representative USGS streamgage in Ochiltree County to provide live flow data. Without real-time discharge metrics, water managers rely on groundwater levels and periodic manual sampling. Drinking water compliance remains the most consistent data signal available for residents.

Awareness of Agricultural Runoff

Since local monitoring focuses on organics and pesticides, residents should ensure their home water treatment systems target these chemicals. The Grade D rating suggests keeping an eye on annual consumer confidence reports for any recurring issues. Private well owners should test specifically for nitrates and pesticides due to the rural setting.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ochiltree County

via WeatherByCounty

The Cooler Side of the Panhandle

Ochiltree County averages 59.1°F annually, which is closer to the national median than most of Texas. Its high-plains location provides a much different climate than the rest of the state.

Well Below the Texas Temperature Mean

The county is over 6 degrees cooler than the Texas average of 65.5°F. Its 21.7 inches of annual rain also puts it in the drier third of the state's counties.

Snowy Peaks in a Dry Region

Ochiltree receives 9.1 inches of snow annually, which is extremely high for Texas. It is much colder in winter than its southern neighbors, with a January average of only 37.2°F.

Cold Winters and Moderate Summers

Summers are shorter here, with 74 days of extreme heat compared to over 100 in South Texas. Winter is the dominant season, featuring a chilly Dec-Feb average of 38.6°F.

Winterize for Cold and Snow

Residents must maintain reliable heating systems and snow removal equipment for the 9.1 inches of annual snowfall. Water-efficient landscaping is also necessary due to the 21.7-inch rainfall average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ochiltree County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline High Plains Earth

Ochiltree County features a notably alkaline soil profile with an average pH of 7.72. This level stands significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and the Texas state average of 7.09. While taxonomy data is limited, the high pH suggests a mineral-rich environment common in the Panhandle.

A Balanced Textural Trio

The soil contains a balanced mixture of 32.9% sand, 35.9% silt, and 28.1% clay. This relatively even distribution provides a stable structure that avoids the extremes of pure sand or heavy clay. Growers find this mix offers decent workability for large-scale agricultural operations.

Stronger Than Average Fertility

Organic matter reaches 1.89%, outperforming the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.158 in/in also beats the state benchmark of 0.133 in/in. These figures indicate a superior ability to retain nutrients and moisture for thirsty crops.

Water Retention Mastery

While specific drainage classes are unlisted, the soil score of 31.7 suggests performance above the state average of 28.8. The high available water capacity implies the soil holds onto rainfall effectively rather than letting it leach away. This is critical for success in the semi-arid climate of Northern Texas.

Wheat and Sorghum Territory

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, this county is a powerhouse for winter wheat and grain sorghum. The alkaline soil supports these hearty crops well, provided growers manage the high pH levels. Start your garden with drought-tolerant varieties that thrive in cool winters and hot summers.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ochiltree County

via LawnByCounty

Manageable Lawns in the Panhandle

Ochiltree County is actually easier to manage than many Texas neighbors, with a lawn difficulty score of 36.0. While this is better than the state average of 31.7, it still trails the national median of 50.0 due to high plains aridity.

Moderate Heat but Limited Rain

Homeowners enjoy fewer extreme heat days (74) than the state average of 105, providing some relief for cool-season grasses. However, the 21.7 inches of annual precipitation means you must rely on irrigation to keep your lawn from going dormant.

High Alkalinity Requires Attention

The soil pH of 7.72 is quite high, often requiring sulfur amendments to bring it closer to the ideal 6.5 level. With 28.1% clay and 32.9% sand, your soil may suffer from compaction, so annual aeration is highly recommended.

Preparing for Dry Panhandle Winds

The county experienced 14 weeks of drought last year and currently remains 100% abnormally dry. To conserve water, mow at a higher setting to shade the soil and reduce the evaporation caused by constant winds.

Zone 7a Planting Window

In hardiness zone 7a, Buffalo grass or drought-tolerant Fescue blends are your best bets for success. Aim to seed after the final frost on April 14, but ensure you finish before the first fall frost arrives around October 30.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ochiltree County's county score?
Ochiltree County, Texas has a composite county score of 39.6 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 Ochiltree County rank among counties in Texas?
Ochiltree County ranks #145 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 Ochiltree County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Ochiltree County is $1,924, with an effective tax rate of 1.40%. This earns Ochiltree County a tax score of 17.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ochiltree County?
The median household income in Ochiltree County, Texas is $64,988 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ochiltree County earns an income score of 54.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ochiltree County, Texas a good place to live?
Ochiltree County scores 39.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #145 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Ochiltree 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 Ochiltree County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.