countyscore
32.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 95.9Schools 53.2Health 52

County Report Card

About Parker County, Texas

Wealthy but lagging national median scores

Parker County has a composite score of 32.8, which sits below the national median of 50.0. Despite high incomes, extremely high housing costs relative to the national average impact the score.

Below the Texas state average

Parker's 32.8 composite score trails the Texas average of 41.9. The county's rapid growth has created a high-cost environment that outweighs its high-income benefits for some residents.

Exceptional income and solid health

Parker County dominates in income with a near-perfect score of 95.9, fueled by a median household income of $102,099. It also maintains a healthy community with a health score of 52.0.

High cost of living and taxes

Cost is a major hurdle, with a score of 6.8 and a median home value of $343,600. The tax score of 15.2 reflects the financial pressure of maintaining property in this high-value area.

Perfect for high-earning suburbanites

Parker County is best for affluent families and high-income professionals who want premier earning potential and can afford luxury housing. It suits those who prioritize local wealth and good schools over general affordability.

Score breakdown

Tax15.2Cost6.8Safety31.4Health52Schools53.2Income95.9Risk18.9Water16.5Weather37
🏛15.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠6.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡31.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤52
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡18.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧16.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤37
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨31.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱46.4
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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Counties with similar scores

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Median income: $86,365
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Mobile County
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Fresno County
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Sumter County
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Thomas County
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Hampden County
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Richmond County
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Nearby counties

Hood County
Texas
37.4
Palo Pinto County
Texas
31.7
Wise County
Texas
36.7
Tarrant County
Texas
31.5
Somervell County
Texas
48.7
Johnson County
Texas
32.7
Jack County
Texas
49.9
Erath County
Texas
38.6

Deep Dives

Parker County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Parker County

via TaxByCounty

Parker County taxes above national norm

Parker County's 1.449% effective rate generates a median property tax of $4,978—significantly higher than the national median of $2,690. This places Parker in the top 40% of U.S. counties by tax burden, driven by substantially higher home values.

Among Texas's highest-tax counties

Parker's 1.449% effective rate tops Texas's 1.276% state average by 17%, making it one of the pricier counties for property owners statewide. The $4,978 median tax far exceeds the state median of $2,193, reflecting Parker's booming real estate market.

Premium taxes for premium property

Parker County's 1.449% rate outpaces all nearby counties in this analysis, including Palo Pinto (1.283%) and Oldham (1.297%). The $4,978 median tax reflects Parker's status as a high-growth Dallas suburb with premium property values.

Your Parker County tax bill

On the county median home value of $343,600, the annual property tax comes to approximately $4,978—the highest in this group. Including mortgage-related fees, the total reaches $6,097.

High-value homes deserve appraisal review

Parker County homeowners with substantial properties should be especially diligent about appraisal accuracy, as even small percentage errors can cost thousands in annual taxes. File an appeal with the appraisal district if your assessment doesn't align with recent comparable sales in your neighborhood.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Parker County

via CostByCounty

Parker's affluence offsets higher rents

Parker County renters spend 16.9% of income on housing despite $1,440 monthly rent—beaten only by their exceptional median income of $102,099. This Dallas-Fort Worth exurb shows how high earnings can sustain elevated housing costs while maintaining affordability ratios.

Affluent county with strong affordability

Parker's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio beats Texas's 18.1% average, despite housing costs 50% above the state median. Its median household income of $102,099—the highest among these eight counties—explains the paradox of expensive housing yet solid affordability.

Priciest rents, but highest incomes

Parker's $1,440 rent is the highest of any county surveyed, yet its 16.9% burden remains competitive because median income ($102,099) far exceeds peers. Homeowners pay $1,665 monthly—reflecting median home values of $343,600, the region's most expensive.

High incomes sustain premium housing

Parker County's $102,099 median household income means $1,440 rent represents only 16.9% of gross income—quite reasonable given the county's affluence. Homeowners dedicate $1,665 monthly to ownership costs on homes averaging $343,600, reflecting Dallas-Fort Worth's booming residential market.

Premium suburban living near Dallas

Parker County suits high-earning households seeking exurban Dallas-Fort Worth access; its 16.9% rent ratio justifies costs for six-figure earners. If your household income exceeds $90,000 and you value suburban amenities over affordability, Parker's newer housing stock and strong schools merit serious consideration.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Parker County

via IncomeByCounty

Parker County significantly exceeds national income

Parker County's median household income of $102,099 towers 37% above the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it in the top 10% nationally. The county's proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth and strong suburban employment base generate exceptional earning opportunities.

Highest income among Texas counties

Parker County ranks in the top 5% of Texas counties, earning $37,362 more than the state median of $64,737. This exceptional position reflects the county's status as a premier Dallas-Fort Worth suburban destination.

Dramatically outearns all peers

Parker County's $102,099 median income dwarfs every comparable county—nearly $26,000 more than Oldham County ($76,402), the second-highest earner in this group. The gap reflects Parker's unique advantage as a prosperous DFW suburb.

Strong wealth-building position

With a rent-to-income ratio of 16.9% and median home value of $343,600, Parker County households allocate minimal income to housing relative to earnings. This combination of high income and controlled housing ratios creates substantial financial security and discretionary wealth.

Aggressive wealth accumulation strategies

Parker County residents should maximize tax-advantaged retirement accounts, diversify into investment properties, and explore high-yield investment strategies with professional guidance. The county's strong income trajectory supports generational wealth building and financial independence goals.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Parker County

via CrimeByCounty

Parker County Earns High Safety Marks

Parker County is safer than the national average, sporting a robust safety score of 97.4. Its total crime rate of 1,617.2 per 100,000 residents is 32% lower than the national benchmark of 2,385.5.

A Safety Leader in North Texas

Parker County exceeds the Texas state safety average of 96.8. With 11 reporting agencies, the county effectively maintains crime rates that are significantly lower than the state average of 2,052.5.

Safer Than Its Western Neighbors

Parker County is notably more secure than neighboring Palo Pinto County, showing lower rates in both violent and property crime. Its high number of reporting agencies ensures comprehensive coverage across the county.

Low Violent Crime Rates

The county's violent crime rate of 197.1 per 100,000 is nearly half the national average. Property crime sits at 1,420.1 per 100,000, which is also well below national levels.

Sustaining a Safe Community

Homeowners can help keep crime rates low by participating in community watch programs and installing smart doorbells. These small steps ensure that Parker County remains a top choice for safety-conscious families.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Parker County

via HealthByCounty

Parker County boasts top health outcomes

Parker County residents live to an average of 76.9 years—among the healthiest in Texas and only 2 years below the U.S. average of 78.9 years. Just 16.1% report poor or fair health, the best rate in this eight-county group.

Parker leads Texas in life expectancy

At 76.9 years, Parker County exceeds Texas's 74.3-year average by 2.6 years—a substantial advantage reflecting strong healthcare infrastructure and community health. This ranks Parker among the state's healthiest counties.

Strong provider access across both specialties

Parker offers 38 primary care providers and 73 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—solid availability that exceeds most peers. This balanced provider network supports both preventive and behavioral health across the county.

Second-lowest uninsured rate in the group

Parker's 15.7% uninsured rate ranks second-best among the eight counties, 4.1 points below Texas's 19.8% average. Strong employment and reliable insurance access correlate directly with the county's outstanding health outcomes.

Maintain your health insurance continuity

While Parker's uninsured rate is low, gaps in coverage can disrupt care and health outcomes. Review your plan annually at healthcare.gov to ensure continuous, comprehensive coverage for your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Parker County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expanding Schools in Parker County

Parker County manages an extensive network of 44 public schools serving 27,414 students across nine districts. The county is particularly strong in early education, with 23 elementary schools supporting a growing population.

Exceptional Graduation and High Standards

The county boasts a 94.6% graduation rate, which is significantly higher than both the state and national averages. Despite spending a modest $6,342 per student, local schools maintain high performance and community trust.

Weatherford and Aledo Lead the Growth

Weatherford ISD and Aledo ISD are the primary districts, serving 8,255 and 7,857 students respectively. The county remains largely committed to traditional public education, with only one charter school currently in operation.

Rural Locales and Large Campuses

While 28 schools are situated in rural locales, the average enrollment is a significant 623 students per school. Weatherford High School is the county's largest campus, serving 2,525 students in a bustling high school environment.

Join a Growing Community

Parker County is one of the region's top choices for families, thanks to graduation rates that approach 95%. Whether you prefer the suburban feel of Aledo or the historic charm of Weatherford, there is a great school waiting for your children.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Parker County

via RiskByCounty

Parker County faces above-average risk

At 81.11, Parker County's composite risk score is 66% above the Texas state average of 49.00, earning a Relatively Moderate rating. This North Texas county ranks among the nation's more hazardous regions, reflecting its position in a tornado and wildfire-prone zone.

Upper-risk tier among Texas counties

Parker County ranks in the high-risk band statewide, driven by extreme wildfire and tornado exposure that characterizes North Texas. The county's composite score places it well into the upper quartile of Texas risk profiles, making disaster preparedness a serious priority.

Riskier than most surrounding areas

Parker County (81.11) significantly exceeds Palo Pinto (55.22) and Panola (55.44), approaching the vulnerability levels of Orange County (85.91) and Nueces County (96.63). Its exceptional wildfire and tornado exposure makes it one of North Texas's most hazardous counties for property owners.

Wildfire and tornado are existential

Wildfire risk soars to 96.25 and tornado risk reaches 96.22—both among the highest in Texas and the nation. Flood risk at 72.42 adds a third significant concern, while earthquake (41.44) and hurricane (45.18) remain secondary, making Parker County a fire-and-wind-dominated disaster zone.

Wildfire and tornado coverage are critical

Verify that your homeowners policy covers both wildfire and tornado damage with appropriate deductibles and limits—these are non-negotiable in Parker County. Consider a separate windstorm policy if available, review your flood coverage, and invest in property hardening (defensive landscaping, metal roofing) to reduce vulnerability to the county's twin fire-and-wind threats.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Parker County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistent Warmth North of the Metroplex

Parker County reports an annual average temperature of 64.7°F, staying well above the national median. It receives 33.5 inches of rain, placing it in a temperate but occasionally dry zone.

Slightly Cooler Than the Texas Average

At 64.7°F, the county is just a fraction cooler than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. Rainfall is nearly identical to the state benchmark of 31.9 inches, totaling 33.5 inches annually.

Matching the North-Central Texas Pattern

Parker County's climate closely follows its neighbor Palo Pinto, though it is slightly cooler on average. It lacks the extreme humidity of the coast but faces similar heat challenges as the rest of the region.

Extended Summer Heat and Mild Winters

Summer dominates the calendar with 101 days reaching 90°F or more and a July average of 83.8°F. Winter stays around 46.5°F, and while snowfall data is currently unavailable, it remains a rare occurrence.

Plan for Triple-Digit Summer Peaks

Outdoor activities should be scheduled for early mornings given the 101 days of extreme heat. Residents should focus on water-efficient landscaping to thrive during the dry, hot summer months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Parker County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced North Texas Chemistry

Parker County maintains a very balanced pH of 7.06, nearly identical to the state average. This neutral profile is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 but is ideal for many native species. It provides a stable chemical baseline for most landscaping and farming projects.

Sandy Loam Characteristics

The soil contains 54.3% sand, balanced by 24.9% silt and 19.7% clay. This high sand percentage aids in aeration and makes the soil easier to work than the heavy clays found further east. It provides a resilient structure for gardens and small farms alike.

Competitive Soil Performance

At 1.46%, organic matter is slightly below the state average, but the overall soil score of 31.6 is quite healthy. The available water capacity sits at 0.132 in/in, right on par with the Texas average of 0.133. This makes for a reliable, if not extraordinary, growing medium.

Managing Slow Water Infiltration

Categorized in Hydrologic Group D, this soil often experiences slow water infiltration when saturated. This means that during heavy Texas rains, water is more likely to run off the surface than soak in deeply. Proper grading and mulch can help capture more of that vital rainwater.

Peaches and Summer Squash

Parker County is famous for its peaches, which love the well-aerated sandy soil of Zone 8a. Neutral pH also supports a huge variety of vegetables and ornamental flowers. Take advantage of the long growing season by starting your seeds in early spring.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Parker County

via LawnByCounty

Prime Conditions West of Fort Worth

Parker County is one of the easiest places in Texas to grow a lawn, with a difficulty score of 46.4. This is much better than the state average of 31.7 and only slightly more challenging than the national average.

Balanced Rain and Intense Summer Sun

An annual precipitation of 33.5 inches is nearly perfect for maintaining healthy turf without excessive watering. However, 101 days of extreme heat still pose a threat, so your grass needs to be hardy enough to survive the 90°F+ temperatures.

Balanced Soils for Healthy Roots

The soil pH is 7.06, which is effectively neutral and ideal for most common Texas grasses. With a composition of 54.3% sand and 19.7% clay, the ground offers great drainage while still holding onto essential nutrients.

Strong Resistance to Drought

With only 8 weeks of drought over the last year, Parker County remains relatively resilient compared to its neighbors. Even though the county is currently abnormally dry, the balanced soil texture helps lawns bounce back quickly once watering resumes.

The Best Turf for Parker County

Bermuda and Zoysia are the top recommendations for this zone 8a climate due to their heat tolerance and water efficiency. Get started on your lawn after March 25 to avoid the last spring frost and ensure a long growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Parker County's county score?
Parker County, Texas has a composite county score of 32.9 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 Parker County rank among counties in Texas?
Parker County ranks #190 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 Parker County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Parker County is $4,978, with an effective tax rate of 1.45%. This earns Parker County a tax score of 15.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Parker County?
The median household income in Parker County, Texas is $102,099 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Parker County earns an income score of 95.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Parker County, Texas a good place to live?
Parker County scores 32.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #190 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Parker 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 Parker 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.