countyscore
48.5
County Score
Safety 83Disaster Risk 74.9Income & Jobs 60.8

County Report Card

About Pecos County, Texas

Approaching National Livability Standards

Pecos County scores a 48.4, placing it just shy of the national median of 50.0. It performs remarkably well for a high-desert region, nearly matching the baseline for American counties.

A Top Performer in the Lone Star State

Pecos County significantly outperforms the Texas state average of 41.9. This strong showing makes it one of the more desirable desert counties for those seeking Texas's vast open spaces.

Exceptional Safety and Low Natural Risk

Safety is the county’s crowning jewel with an impressive score of 83.0. Residents also benefit from a very low environmental risk profile and a relatively low tax rate of 1.034%.

Water Scarcity and Healthcare Access

Water availability is a critical concern, reflected in a very low score of 9.6. Healthcare access also presents a challenge, with the county's health score lagging at just 10.5.

Ideal for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Retirees

Pecos is perfect for those prioritizing safety and environmental stability over urban amenities. It offers an affordable, low-crime lifestyle for people comfortable with remote living.

Score breakdown

Tax35.6Cost48.8Safety83Health10.5Schools53.2Income60.8Risk74.9Water9.6Weather29.4
🏛35.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠48.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼60.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡83
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤10.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡74.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧9.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤29.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨24.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱10.9
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Pecos County?

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

Check My Assessment

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 Pecos County with Logan County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Logan County
Arkansas
Median income: $54,237
48.5
Kiowa County
Colorado
Median income: $56,389
48.5
Highlands County
Florida
Median income: $55,581
48.5
Jenkins County
Georgia
Median income: $36,906
48.5
Shelby County
Indiana
Median income: $71,301
48.5
Thomas County
Kansas
Median income: $73,575
48.5
Walthall County
Mississippi
Median income: $45,444
48.5
Winston County
Mississippi
Median income: $49,071
48.5

Nearby counties

Crockett County
Texas
71.3
Crane County
Texas
53.5
Terrell County
Texas
64
Upton County
Texas
55.8
Ward County
Texas
50.2
Reagan County
Texas
55.4
Ector County
Texas
21.2
Midland County
Texas
38.7

Deep Dives

Pecos County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pecos County

via TaxByCounty

Pecos County: low-tax West Texas

Pecos County's 1.034% effective rate generates a median property tax of $1,477, well below the national median of $2,690. This places the West Texas county in the bottom 20% nationally for property tax burden.

Below Texas average across the board

Pecos's 1.034% effective rate sits comfortably below Texas's 1.276% state average, ranking it among the state's most affordable counties for property owners. The $1,477 median tax is 33% lower than the state median of $2,193.

Best rates in West Texas

Pecos County's 1.034% rate is the second-lowest in this analysis after Panola (0.899%), reflecting the more affordable property landscape of rural West Texas. The $1,477 median tax is the third-lowest here, ahead of most other counties examined.

Pecos County tax bill snapshot

On the median home value of $142,900, residents pay approximately $1,477 annually in property taxes—one of the lowest in this group. Without a mortgage, the bill drops to just $1,051.

Verify your appraisal even in low-tax areas

Even in Pecos County's low-tax environment, individual properties can be overappraised, unnecessarily inflating annual tax bills. Review your property tax notice and consider filing an appeal with the appraisal district if your home is assessed higher than comparable properties nearby.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pecos County

via CostByCounty

Pecos rents eat less of your paycheck

At 17.3%, Pecos County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the Texas average of 18.1% and suggests housing is more affordable here than in many American markets. The typical renter spends about $973 monthly on housing while earning $67,689 annually—modestly less than the national median income of $74,755.

Better than average across Texas

Pecos County ranks favorably among Texas counties for rental affordability, with renters dedicating a smaller share of income to housing than the state average. This positions Pecos as a relatively affordable option within a state where rent pressures vary dramatically by region.

Competitive with West Texas peers

Pecos County's $973 median rent is nearly identical to the state average of $963, making it competitive with similar rural West Texas counties. Housing costs here align closely with nearby markets, offering stability for renters considering the region.

Renting versus buying in Pecos

Renters in Pecos spend $973 monthly while homeowners pay $720, making ownership significantly cheaper on a monthly basis. With a median home value of $142,900 and strong incomes averaging $67,689, both pathways remain within reach for working families.

Consider Pecos for balanced costs

If you're weighing relocation, Pecos County offers below-average housing burden without sacrificing regional economics or proximity to larger markets. Compare this rent-to-income ratio against other counties on this list to find your best fit.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pecos County

via IncomeByCounty

Pecos County Earnings Close to U.S.

Pecos County's median household income of $67,689 trails the national median of $74,755 by about $7,000, reflecting rural Texas patterns. Still, the county performs solidly on a national percentile basis, especially compared to other oil-and-agriculture-dependent regions.

Pecos Ranks Mid-Pack in Texas

At $67,689, Pecos County exceeds the Texas state average of $64,737 by roughly $2,950, placing it ahead of half the state's counties. The county benefits from energy sector employment and ranching heritage.

Edge Out Parmer, Trail Randall

Pecos County's $67,689 income slightly undercuts Parmer County ($68,164) but towers above Potter County ($50,448). Nearby Randall County ($80,905) sets a higher benchmark for the region's economic potential.

Rent Stays Affordable Here

Pecos County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% is well below the 30% affordability threshold, signaling strong housing affordability. The median home value of $142,900 is achievable for households earning the county median.

Leverage Low Housing Costs

With only 17.3% of income going to rent, Pecos County households have meaningful capacity to invest, save, or reduce debt. Build a diversified portfolio starting with tax-advantaged retirement vehicles—your cost-of-living advantage compounds over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pecos County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety Levels in Pecos

Pecos County earns a high safety score of 99.4. Its total crime rate of 403.6 per 100K is nearly six times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Surpassing State Safety Averages

This county significantly outperforms the Texas state average safety score of 96.8. Pecos ranks as one of the more secure counties in the state, maintaining a crime rate far below the state average of 2,052.5.

Competitive Security in West Texas

Pecos maintains a highly competitive safety standing among its rural neighbors. Its total crime rate is a small fraction of what is typically observed in more urbanized Texas counties.

Person and Property Statistical Security

Violent crimes occur at a rate of 86.0 per 100K, while property crimes sit at 317.6 per 100K. These low figures reflect a community where both residents and their property are statistically very safe.

Proactive Prevention for Residents

Maintaining these low rates depends on continued community vigilance and local reporting. Residents can enhance this security by utilizing basic home automation and motion-activated outdoor lighting.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pecos County

via HealthByCounty

Pecos lags national life expectancy

At 72.5 years, Pecos County residents live nearly four years shorter than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. One in four Pecos residents (26.8%) report poor or fair health, exceeding national norms and pointing to chronic disease burdens.

Among Texas's healthiest ranked

Despite lower life expectancy, Pecos County actually outperforms Texas on uninsured rates: 22.4% versus the state average of 19.8%. However, its 72.5-year life expectancy runs 1.8 years below Texas's 74.3-year average.

Better access than Parmer

Pecos boasts 46 primary care providers per 100K—nearly five times Parmer County's 10 per 100K—yet life expectancy remains lower. This suggests access alone doesn't guarantee health outcomes; chronic disease management and preventive care gaps may be at play.

Moderate access, persistent gaps

With 46 primary care and 27 mental health providers per 100K, Pecos has reasonable infrastructure for a rural county. Still, 22.4% of residents remain uninsured, limiting their ability to use available services and manage chronic conditions.

Pecos can bridge coverage gaps

More than one in five Pecos residents lack insurance—a barrier to using the county's doctors and mental health providers. Explore Texas Medicaid, CHIP, and marketplace plans at healthcare.gov to get covered today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pecos County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Town Texas Education Infrastructure

Pecos County supports 2,773 students across a network of 10 public schools managed by three local districts. The system includes four elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools, providing a focused academic path for rural families. This modest infrastructure balances local town centers with four schools dedicated to serving the county's vast rural reaches.

High Graduation Rates on a Lean Budget

The county boasts an impressive 92.3% graduation rate, which exceeds both the Texas state average of 91.6% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. These results come despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $6,878, significantly lower than the national average of $13,000. The composite school score of 54.5 sits just below the state average of 55.3, indicating steady academic performance.

Fort Stockton ISD Leads the Region

Fort Stockton ISD serves as the educational anchor, enrolling 2,187 students across six individual campuses. The county currently hosts no charter schools, keeping the focus entirely on traditional public districts like Iraan-Sheffield Collegiate ISD. This concentrated district model ensures that the vast majority of local students benefit from centralized resources.

Intimate Classrooms in Town and Rural Settings

With an average school size of just 277 students, education here feels personal and community-oriented. Fort Stockton High is the largest campus with 698 students, while smaller elementary campuses like Fort Stockton Apache EL keep enrollment around 333. The mix of six town-based and four rural schools reflects the county's geographic diversity.

Plan Your Future Near Pecos County Schools

Families looking for high graduation rates and a close-knit atmosphere will find Pecos County a compelling choice. School quality is a vital factor in long-term home value, making this area a smart target for your real estate search. Explore local listings to find a home that puts your children in the heart of these high-performing districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pecos County

via RiskByCounty

Pecos County ranks very low nationally

Pecos County's composite risk score of 25.13 places it well below the national average, marking it as a very low-risk area for natural disasters. Despite its remote West Texas location, the county benefits from lower exposure to the most destructive hazards.

Among Texas's safest counties

Pecos County's score of 25.13 is less than half the Texas state average of 49.00, positioning it among the state's lower-risk counties. This relative safety makes it an outlier even within West Texas.

Safer than surrounding West Texas counties

Pecos County (25.13) enjoys significantly lower risk than Potter County (90.49) to the north and Parmer (81.81) to the northeast, though it shares similar wildfire exposure with those neighbors. Its isolation and lower population density contribute to a smaller overall disaster footprint.

Wildfire represents the primary concern

Pecos County's wildfire risk (64.82) is its dominant hazard, while tornado (26.08), hurricane (30.45), and earthquake (20.74) risks remain relatively modest. The county's arid landscape makes wildfire preparation the key priority.

Focus on wildfire preparedness

Pecos County residents should ensure homeowners policies include wildfire coverage and maintain defensible space around structures through vegetation management. Standard policies may exclude wildfire, so confirm your coverage includes this hazard.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pecos County

via WeatherByCounty

Arid Heat in the Trans-Pecos Region

Pecos County averages 66.1°F annually, significantly warmer than the national median. It is exceptionally dry, receiving just 14.0 inches of rain per year, which is far below national norms.

Hotter and Drier Than State Averages

Pecos County's average of 66.1°F exceeds the 65.5°F Texas state average. Its 14.0 inches of precipitation is less than half of the 31.9 inches typically seen across the state.

A Desert Climate Compared to the East

The county is far drier than East Texas neighbors like Polk or Panola. Its extreme heat and low rainfall define it as a true desert climate within the vast Texas landscape.

Punishing Summers and High Sun Exposure

Extreme heat is the norm with 129 days over 90°F and a July average of 83.1°F. Winters are mild at 48.8°F, seeing just 1.1 inches of snow annually amid the arid landscape.

Prioritize Sun Protection and Water Storage

With 129 days of extreme heat, residents must have high-performance cooling and sun protection. Strict water conservation is a way of life given the meager 14 inches of annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pecos County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Desert Foundations

Pecos County features alkaline soil with a pH of 7.62, exceeding both the national median and the Texas average. This mineral-heavy soil is typical of the Trans-Pecos region. It offers a unique chemistry that supports a specific range of desert-adapted vegetation.

Silt-Dominant Textures

With 42.5% silt, 26.2% sand, and 25.9% clay, this soil has a smoother, finer feel than many sandy Texas counties. Silt-heavy soils can be very fertile but are often prone to erosion if left uncovered. The balanced clay content helps provide some necessary structural stability.

High Organic Matter, Low Water

Organic matter is impressive at 1.94%, well above the state average of 1.66%. However, the available water capacity is lower at 0.123 in/in, reflecting the arid nature of the region. The overall soil score is 24.5, suggesting some challenges for non-native plants.

Managing High Runoff Rates

The county is classified under Hydrologic Group D, meaning it has a very slow rate of water infiltration. In this desert climate, rare heavy rains can quickly lead to flash runoff rather than deep soil soaking. Landowners must focus on capturing water where it falls to maximize moisture.

Desert Gems in Zone 8a

Hardiness Zone 8a and silty soil make this a great place for agave, yucca, and other succulents. The high organic matter supports native grasses and desert blooms with surprising vigor. For a successful garden, choose native Trans-Pecos plants that thrive on limited water and high pH.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pecos County

via LawnByCounty

One of Texas's toughest lawn environments

With a lawn difficulty score of 10.9, Pecos County is one of the most challenging places in the nation to grow grass. This score is nearly 21 points lower than the already difficult Texas state average. Maintaining a lush yard in Zone 8a requires extreme effort and specialized care.

Intense heat and desert-like rainfall

The county endures 129 extreme heat days annually, far surpassing the state average of 105. Only 14.0 inches of rain falls each year, which is less than half of what a standard lawn requires. High activity is driven by 6,384 growing degree days, necessitating constant attention between March and November.

Balancing sand and alkaline minerals

The soil pH of 7.62 is higher than the 6.0-7.0 ideal, which can limit the availability of vital nutrients like iron. The mix of 26.2% sand and 25.9% clay creates a texture that requires organic matter to improve its structure. Regular soil testing is vital here to manage the high mineral content.

A full year of drought conditions

Pecos County has experienced 53 weeks of drought over the past year, making water conservation a necessity rather than an option. Currently, 14.5% of the area is in severe drought, while the entire county remains abnormally dry. Xeriscaping or choosing the most drought-hardy species is critical for sustainability.

Choosing survivors for the Trans-Pecos

Bermudagrass is the primary option for lawns here due to its ability to go dormant during extreme heat and drought. Plant after the March 22 frost to take advantage of the long growing season before the 110-degree days arrive. For the best results, consider native grasses that naturally adapt to these rugged conditions.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pecos County's county score?
Pecos County, Texas has a composite county score of 48.5 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 Pecos County rank among counties in Texas?
Pecos County ranks #76 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 Pecos County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Pecos County is $1,477, with an effective tax rate of 1.03%. This earns Pecos County a tax score of 35.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pecos County?
The median household income in Pecos County, Texas is $67,689 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pecos County earns an income score of 60.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pecos County, Texas a good place to live?
Pecos County scores 48.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #76 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Pecos 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 Pecos 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.