41.5
County Score
Cost of Living 64.8Disaster Risk 62.6Schools 59

County Report Card

About Refugio County, Texas

Below the National Median Score

Refugio County earns a composite score of 41.5, trailing the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a mix of high affordability and infrastructure needs typical of many rural coastal areas.

Consistent with State Performance

With a score of 41.5, the county is effectively on par with the Texas state average of 41.9. It represents a standard Texas experience, offering moderate costs and solid public schools.

Affordable Living and Solid Schools

Cost of living is a major advantage, shown by a cost score of 64.8 and a median home value of $94,400. The county also maintains decent educational standards with a school score of 59.0.

Infrastructure and Tax Burdens

Water quality and infrastructure are significant weaknesses, with a score of only 6.4. Homeowners also face a higher tax burden than many neighbors, as shown by the 17.1 tax score and 1.404% effective rate.

Ideal for Coastal Value Seekers

Refugio County suits individuals or families looking for very low home prices and reliable local schools. It is a good match for those who can tolerate higher tax rates in exchange for small-town community life.

2040608010017.164.848.217.95932.962.66.416.9Tax17.1Cost64.8Safety48.2Health17.9Schools59Income32.9Risk62.6Water6.4Weather16.941.5/100
This county
National avg
2 above average5 below average

Refugio County DNA

Foverall

How Refugio County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Refugio County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (64.8/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (6.4/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
17.1-34.9
Cost
64.8+16.799999999999997
Safety
48.2
Health
17.9-32.1
Schools
59
Income
32.9-18.1
Risk
62.6+15.600000000000001
Water
6.4-51.6
Weather
16.9-39.1
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Think property taxes are too high in Refugio County?

Many homeowners in Refugio 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

$94,400

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$842/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$94,400/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$33,680/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.6x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $58,016/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Deep Dives

Refugio County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Refugio County

via TaxByCounty

Refugio taxes exceed national median slightly

Refugio County's effective tax rate of 1.404% sits above the national median of 1.276%, placing it among higher-taxed U.S. counties. The median property tax here is $1,325 annually—still less than half the national median of $2,690, thanks to a modest median home value of $94,400 compared to $281,900 nationwide.

Refugio ranks above average in Texas

At 1.404%, Refugio County's effective rate exceeds Texas's state average of 1.276%, placing it in the upper third of Texas counties. The county's $1,325 median tax mirrors the state median of $2,193, reflecting higher-than-average rates applied to lower-than-average home values.

Refugio has the region's highest tax rate

Refugio's 1.404% rate tops neighboring Reeves (1.181%), Runnels (1.464%), and Roberts (1.004%) counties, making it a regional tax outlier. This higher burden applies even to modestly valued homes, distinguishing Refugio from its surrounding peers.

Median home costs about $1,325 yearly

On the typical Refugio County home valued at $94,400, you'd pay roughly $1,325 in annual property taxes—or about $110 per month. With a mortgage, that figure may climb to $1,404 when lenders include taxes in escrow.

Appeal overvalued assessments to cut your bill

Refugio County homeowners should scrutinize their assessed values; many properties are overvalued relative to recent sales. Filing a tax appeal can reduce your appraisal and deliver meaningful annual savings, especially in a county where rates already run above state average.

Cost of Living in Refugio County

via CostByCounty

Refugio achieves rare balance

Refugio County's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio edges below Texas's 18.1% state average and sits well below the national norm, making it genuinely affordable. With a median household income of $58,016 and median rent of $842, Refugio offers one of the better housing-cost-to-income balances in rural Texas.

Refugio ranks among Texas's best

Refugio County places in the top tier of Texas counties for rental affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio that beats approximately 70% of all Texas counties. This coastal bend community punches above its weight in housing accessibility relative to local earning power.

Coastal calm vs. inland strain

Refugio's 17.4% rent burden is noticeably better than Red River (23.1%) and Reeves (21.1%) to the north, rivaling Roberts and Robertson counties near the state's best. The combination of modest rents ($842) and decent median income ($58,016) creates unusual affordability for a rural Texas county.

Refugio's favorable housing math

A Refugio household earning $58,016 annually pays $842 monthly in rent—about $10,104 per year—while homeowners average $651 in monthly ownership costs. Housing consumes roughly 17% of gross income, below state and national thresholds, leaving more breathing room for savings and other expenses.

Strong value for coastal proximity

Refugio offers rare affordability combined with Gulf Coast access and median home values of just $94,400, making it compelling for remote workers or retirees. Investigate local employment before moving—the county's small, rural character means jobs may be scarce in specialized fields.

Income & Jobs in Refugio County

via IncomeByCounty

Refugio County approaches national income levels

Refugio County's median household income of $58,016 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by about $16,700, representing one of the stronger rural economies in Texas. The per capita income of $26,972 indicates reasonably broad-based earning power across the county.

Lower-middle tier among Texas counties

Refugio County's $58,016 median income falls 10% below Texas's county average of $64,737 but ranks higher than most of its rural neighbors. The per capita income of $26,972 is 19% below the state mean, suggesting some income inequality.

Refugio leads smaller rural Texas counties

Refugio's $58,016 median outpaces Real, Red River, and Reeves counties, positioning it as a relative income leader in this rural cluster. Only Roberts, Robertson, and Rockwall counties earn notably more in this comparison set.

Lowest rent burden in this county group

Refugio County's rent-to-income ratio of just 17.4% is the most favorable in this comparison, leaving households ample budget room. The median home value of $94,400 is highly affordable, making both renting and buying financially accessible.

Strong foundation for wealth accumulation

With the region's best rent-to-income ratio at 17.4%, Refugio County households can redirect savings toward retirement accounts and investments. The affordable $94,400 median home price makes homeownership a realistic wealth-building tool for most families.

Safety in Refugio County

via CrimeByCounty

High National Safety Standing

Refugio County holds a strong safety score of 98.2, reflecting a secure community environment. Its total crime rate of 1,161.0 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This makes the county one of the safer jurisdictions in the country.

Safety Leader in the Coastal Bend

The county's safety score of 98.2 is higher than the Texas average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 1,161.0 also tracks significantly lower than the state average of 2,052.5 per 100K. Data from five reporting agencies confirms this consistent trend of safety.

Local Security Comparison

Refugio County outperforms many of its Coastal Bend neighbors regarding overall crime suppression. The five reporting agencies provide a reliable and comprehensive look at local law enforcement success. It remains a notably quiet area compared to adjacent transit corridors.

Violent and Property Crime Analysis

The violent crime rate stands at 163.7 per 100K, well below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also low at 997.3 per 100K, compared to the national figure of 2,015.7. These statistics translate to a low probability of encountering crime for the average resident.

Simple Steps for Continued Safety

Residents can help maintain these low crime rates by practicing basic property security. Installing home security cameras and keeping vehicles locked are effective ways to prevent property crimes. Community vigilance is the key to keeping Refugio County safe.

Schools in Refugio County

via SchoolsByCounty

Seven Schools Supporting a Tight-Knit Community

Refugio County operates seven public schools that serve a total enrollment of 1,225 students. The system is split among three elementary schools, one middle school, and three high schools across three distinct districts. No charter schools operate here, maintaining a focus on traditional public education.

Strong Per-Pupil Spending Yields Competitive Results

The graduation rate of 87.2% slightly outperforms the national average of 87.0%. The county invests $9,403 per pupil, which is nearly $2,000 more than the Texas state average of $7,498. This high level of funding contributes to a school score of 57.2, beating the state average of 55.3.

Local Districts Offer Diverse Student Options

Refugio ISD is the largest district in the county, overseeing three schools and 654 students. Woodsboro ISD follows with 427 students across two schools, while Austwell-Tivoli ISD serves 144 students. Each district maintains its own unique community identity and local traditions.

Small Campus Sizes in Rural Settings

The educational experience is defined by small campuses, with an average enrollment of just 175 students. Four schools are located in rural areas, while three are situated in town settings. Refugio Elementary is the largest campus in the county, yet it still maintains a manageable enrollment of 299 students.

Discover Homes in Refugio and Woodsboro

Prospective residents often choose Refugio County for its high per-pupil investment and intimate school environments. Whether you prefer the rural peace of Austwell-Tivoli or the town life of Woodsboro, there are housing options near every district. Research local listings to find a home that fits your family's educational needs.

Disaster Risk in Refugio County

via RiskByCounty

Refugio County's risk stays below national norm

Refugio County scores 37.47 for composite disaster risk, maintaining a Very Low rating while sitting modestly below the national average. The county's coastal location creates distinct hazard patterns compared to inland areas.

Below-average risk for Texas profile

At 37.47, Refugio County runs below Texas's 49.00 state average despite its Gulf Coast exposure, reflecting a relatively smaller population footprint. This favorable score masks significant hurricane vulnerability concentrated in limited developed areas.

More hurricane-exposed than inland peers

Refugio County's hurricane risk of 87.36 dwarfs that of neighboring Goliad and San Patricio counties, positioning it as the region's most hurricane-vulnerable location. Inland counties like Live Oak face dramatically lower coastal storm exposure.

Hurricane risk dominates the coast here

Hurricane risk scores 87.36—the single highest hazard in Refugio County—reflecting direct Gulf exposure and a history of major storm impacts. Wildfire and flood risks at 56.68 and 42.60 respectively rank as secondary concerns.

Hurricane coverage is essential for residents

Refugio County coastal and near-coastal homeowners must carry dedicated hurricane/windstorm coverage, as standard homeowners policies exclude hurricane damage in coastal zones. Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is also critical for properties within storm surge zones.

Water Quality in Refugio County

via WaterByCounty

Refugio County Matches State Violation Average

With 30 health violations over five years, Refugio County has earned a failing grade for drinking water quality. Its violation rate of 588.5 per 100,000 people sits almost exactly at the Texas state average of 581.9. These numbers indicate that local water systems face challenges similar to many other regions across the state.

Watershed Status Currently Unassessed

The EPA's ATTAINS database shows that water bodies in Refugio County have not yet been evaluated for Clean Water Act compliance. No impairment data is available for this reporting cycle, leaving the health of local streams unverified. Comprehensive watershed management will require future federal and state assessments.

Steady Monitoring Across Nine County Sites

Refugio County benefits from nine active monitoring sites that have produced 2,767 measurements in the last five years. Testing primarily covers physical data, inorganics, and nutrients, providing a consistent view of local water chemistry. This level of activity helps track the environmental health of the county's coastal-adjacent waters.

Guadalupe River Maintaining Steady Flow

The Guadalupe River near Tivoli is currently flowing at 1,130 cfs, nearly matching its long-term mean of 1,183 cfs. At 96% of its typical flow, the river is in a stable state for this 10,128 square mile drainage basin. Stable flow levels generally provide more predictable source water quality for downstream users.

Stay Informed on Drinking Water Quality

While the Guadalupe River shows stable flow, the county's F grade for drinking water suggests household risks remain. Residents should review their annual water quality reports to identify which specific contaminants caused the 30 recent violations. Using a water filter certified to remove common local pollutants is a prudent safety measure.

Weather & Climate in Refugio County

via WeatherByCounty

Subtropical Coastal Heat Well Above Median

Refugio County's annual average temperature of 70.9°F is much higher than the national median of 53°F. Its location near the Gulf of Mexico ensures warm temperatures throughout the year.

Warmer Than the Vast Majority of Texas

Refugio’s 70.9°F average is significantly higher than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. It is also slightly wetter than the state average, receiving 35.1 inches of rain annually.

Coastal Humidity and Tropical Influence

Refugio is warmer and more humid than inland Texas counties, benefiting from coastal air. Its July average of 83.9°F and January average of 55.2°F show very little seasonal temperature variance.

Endless Summer and Very Mild Winters

The county experiences 111 extreme heat days a year, fueled by a summer average of 83.6°F. Winters are among the warmest in the state, with an average of 56.8°F and almost no snow.

Light Fabrics and Hurricane Preparedness

With a 56.8°F winter average, heavy coats are rarely needed, but high-quality cooling is essential for the 111 heat days. Residents should also prepare for tropical weather given the 35.1 inches of annual rainfall.

Soil Quality in Refugio County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Coastal Plains Soil

Refugio County maintains a pH of 7.05, placing it almost perfectly in line with the Texas state average of 7.09. This neutral balance is closer to the national median of 6.5 than many of its neighbors, providing a versatile foundation for various plants.

Sandy Texture Dominates the Profile

With 52.7% sand, this soil offers excellent aeration but limited nutrient hold compared to heavier clays. Silt and clay make up 21.9% and 25.4% respectively, creating a texture that is generally easy to work.

Moderate Fertility and Water Capacity

The organic matter content is 1.67%, just slightly above the state average of 1.66%. Available water capacity matches the regional low of 0.122 in/in, meaning the soil dries out faster than the state average of 0.133.

High Potential for Water Runoff

Classified in Hydrologic Group D, the soil suffers from poor water movement through the profile. This can lead to surface pooling during heavy Gulf Coast rains, requiring careful landscape grading.

Subtropical Potential in Zone 9b

The warm 9b hardiness zone allows for a nearly year-round growing season for citrus and hardy perennials. Start your garden today with salt-tolerant species that can handle the coastal breeze and sandy grounds.

Lawn Care in Refugio County

via LawnByCounty

Tropical Humidity in Refugio

Refugio County scores a 34.8 for lawn difficulty, making it slightly easier to manage than the typical Texas county. This Zone 9b region offers a long growing season but requires specific strategies to handle the coastal heat.

High Heat and Coastal Rain

With 111 extreme heat days and 35.1 inches of rain, the climate is warm and humid. The massive 7,782 growing degree days mean your mower will stay busy from the early February spring frost date until the first frost in December.

Sandy Soils and Neutral pH

The soil here is over 52% sand, which ensures fast drainage but may require more frequent watering to keep roots hydrated. A pH of 7.05 is almost perfectly neutral, providing a solid foundation for most Southern grass varieties.

Tackling Severe Water Stress

Currently, over 90% of the county is in severe drought, part of a 35-week dry spell over the last year. Mulching your lawn with grass clippings can help retain moisture in the sandy soil and protect roots from the 111 days of triple-digit potential.

Choosing Your Warm-Season Turf

St. Augustine and Seashore Paspalum are excellent choices for this Zone 9b environment and its sandy texture. With a very early spring frost date of February 27th, you can begin your lawn projects much earlier than the rest of the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Refugio County's county score?
Refugio County, Texas has a composite county score of 41.5 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 Refugio County rank among counties in Texas?
Refugio County ranks #125 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 Refugio County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Refugio County is $1,325, with an effective tax rate of 1.40%. This earns Refugio County a tax score of 17.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Refugio County?
The median household income in Refugio County, Texas is $58,016 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Refugio County earns an income score of 32.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Refugio County, Texas a good place to live?
Refugio County scores 41.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #125 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Refugio 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 Refugio County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.