countyscore
40.6
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.9Lawn Care 84Health 69.1

County Report Card

About Rockwall County, Texas

Affluent but Below National Median

Rockwall County scores 40.6, which falls below the national median of 50.0 despite its high wealth. This is largely due to the extreme costs associated with its high-income profile.

A High-Priced Texas Suburb

The county's score of 40.6 is just under the Texas state average of 41.9. It represents the trade-off of modern suburban living: very high earnings but equally high taxes and expenses.

High Incomes and Healthy Living

Rockwall County boasts a near-perfect income score of 98.9, with median household earnings of $124,917. Health access is also a major strength, scoring a robust 69.1.

Extreme Costs and Tax Burdens

Affordability is a major challenge, with a cost score of just 1.9 and median home values reaching $386,000. Taxes are also heavy, as the 8.5 tax score reflects a high 1.643% effective rate.

Best for High-Earning Professionals

Rockwall County is designed for affluent families who value high-income careers and quality healthcare above all else. It is not for the budget-conscious, but for those who can afford the premium for suburban luxury.

204060801008.51.958.269.152.598.929.366.832.2Tax8.5Cost1.9Safety58.2Health69.1Schools52.5Income98.9Risk29.3Water66.8Weather32.240.6/100
This county
National avg
2 above average4 below average

Rockwall County DNA

Foverall

How Rockwall County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Rockwall County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (98.9/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (1.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
8.5-43.5
Cost
1.9-46.1
Safety
58.2
Health
69.1+19.099999999999994
Schools
52.5
Income
98.9+47.900000000000006
Risk
29.3-17.7
Water
66.8+8.799999999999997
Weather
32.2-23.799999999999997
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Compare mortgage rates in Rockwall County

Whether buying or refinancing in Rockwall County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$386,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,899/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$386,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$75,960/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $124,917/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

12.0

per 100K

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
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Counties with similar scores

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Median income: $126,240
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Larimer County
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Colquitt County
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Black Hawk County
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Linn County
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Nearby counties

Hunt County
Texas
31.5
Kaufman County
Texas
29.4
Collin County
Texas
30.4
Dallas County
Texas
26.2
Rains County
Texas
48.2
Van Zandt County
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41.4
Ellis County
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30.8
Denton County
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26.2

Deep Dives

Rockwall County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Rockwall County

via TaxByCounty

Rockwall taxes run well above national average

Rockwall County's effective tax rate of 1.643% stands substantially above the national median of 1.276%, placing it in the nation's higher-taxed counties. The median property tax of $6,341 on homes worth $386,000 exceeds the national median tax of $2,690, reflecting both elevated rates and notably higher property values.

Rockwall ranks among Texas's highest-tax counties

At 1.643%, Rockwall County's effective rate far exceeds the Texas state average of 1.276%, positioning it in the top tier statewide. The $6,341 median tax nearly triples the state median of $2,193, driven by premium home valuations and above-average rates.

Rockwall carries the region's steepest burden

Rockwall's 1.643% rate towers over all regional peers, including Runnels (1.464%), Refugio (1.404%), and Rusk (1.001%). The county combines the highest rate with the highest home values in its peer cluster, creating a tax-heavy environment.

Median home costs about $6,341 yearly

On Rockwall County's premium median home worth $386,000, you'll owe approximately $6,341 annually in property taxes—roughly $528 per month. Borrowers with mortgages may see that climb to $6,812 through escrow, making property tax a significant housing cost.

High-value homes merit careful appraisal reviews

Rockwall County homeowners should aggressively challenge potentially inflated assessments, particularly given the county's premium home values. An appeal that reduces your appraised value by even 5% could save hundreds annually on such a high-value property.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Rockwall County

via CostByCounty

Rockwall's wealth changes everything

Rockwall County's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio nearly matches the state average despite median rents of $1,899—nearly double the state median of $963. The difference: Rockwall's median household income of $124,917 is 67% above the national average, making high rents sustainable for most residents.

Prosperity defines Rockwall's equation

Rockwall ranks among Texas's most affluent counties, and while its 18.2% rent-to-income ratio appears high, it reflects strong earning power rather than hardship. This Dallas suburb hosts household incomes that dwarf most Texas counties, making expensive housing manageable.

Rockwall plays in a different league

Rockwall's $1,899 median rent and $386,000 median home value operate in a completely different economy than rural peers like Roberts (14.0% burden) or Red River (23.1% burden). This prosperous Dallas exurb draws high earners whose incomes justify and absorb housing costs that would strain residents elsewhere.

Wealth absorbs Rockwall's high costs

Rockwall renters earning $124,917 annually spend $1,899 monthly—about $22,788 per year—while homeowners average $2,096 in monthly costs. Even at 18.2% of income, housing consumption reflects abundance: residents retain over $100,000 annually for taxes, savings, and discretionary spending.

Rockwall: prosperity's price tag

Considering Rockwall? You're looking at a wealthy Dallas suburb where $386,000 median home values and high rents reflect strong demand and prosperity. This move makes sense only if your income trajectory matches—relocating here with below-county-average earnings would create affordability stress despite the high-income surroundings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Rockwall County

via IncomeByCounty

Rockwall County far exceeds national median

Rockwall County's median household income of $124,917 towers over the U.S. median of $74,755, running nearly $50,000 higher and placing it in the top 10% nationally. The per capita income of $54,098 reflects one of Texas's strongest economies.

Richest county in Texas comparison

Rockwall County's $124,917 median income nearly doubles the Texas state average of $64,737, ranking it among the wealthiest counties statewide. The per capita income of $54,098 more than exceeds the state's $33,197, indicating broadly shared prosperity.

Rockwall vastly outearns all rural neighbors

Rockwall County's $124,917 median income nearly doubles Roberts and Robertson counties at $66,118 and $66,250 respectively. This Dallas-area suburban county operates in an entirely different economic tier than the rural Texas counties in this group.

Housing costs minimal despite high home values

Rockwall County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.2% remains comfortable despite the $386,000 median home value, reflecting proportionally higher incomes. For homebuyers, typical mortgage payments remain well within the sustainable 28-30% range at this income level.

Maximize wealth through diversified investing

Rockwall County's $124,917 median income and strong home equity position households to maximize tax-advantaged retirement accounts, taxable investments, and real estate diversification. Consider working with a financial planner to optimize investment strategy across multiple asset classes.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Rockwall County

via CrimeByCounty

Safety in One of Texas' Smallest Counties

Rockwall County earns a high safety score of 98.5, indicating a very secure suburban environment. Its total crime rate of 961.7 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This makes it a standout for safety on a national scale.

Top-Tier Safety in the Dallas Area

Rockwall County's safety score of 98.5 exceeds the Texas state average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 961.7 is also vastly superior to the state average of 2,052.5 per 100K. Seven reporting agencies contribute to this high level of public security.

Outperforming Nearby Urban Centers

Compared to neighboring Dallas and Collin counties, Rockwall maintains a significantly lower crime footprint. The data from seven local agencies reflects a highly effective law enforcement presence. It offers a secure residential haven near major metropolitan activity.

Exceptionally Low Violent Crime Rates

The violent crime rate in Rockwall is only 78.6 per 100K, far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also impressively low at 883.1 per 100K, compared to the national 2,015.7. These figures indicate an exceptionally safe community for families.

Investing in Suburban Security

Maintaining low crime rates in a growing suburban area requires active home security measures. Video doorbells and well-lit entryways are excellent deterrents against property crimes. Community watch programs further enhance the already high safety standards in the county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Rockwall County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large Suburban System Serving 22,000 Students

Rockwall County features a robust educational network of 30 public schools serving 22,716 students. The system is heavily weighted toward primary education with 22 elementary schools, supported by four middle and four high schools. Though the data reports one primary district, multiple school systems operate within the county's fast-growing boundaries.

Exceptional Graduation Rates in a Growing Area

The county achieves a stellar 98.5% graduation rate, which is among the highest in the state and far exceeds the 87.0% national average. Despite a lower per-pupil expenditure of $5,529, the county maintains strong performance metrics. The overall school score of 54.8 is just slightly under the state average, despite the high graduation numbers.

Rockwall ISD Dominates the Suburban Landscape

Rockwall ISD is the primary educational provider, managing 22 schools and educating 18,384 students. The county also features three charter schools, which represent 10% of the total public school options. Large secondary schools like Rockwall-Heath High School serve nearly 3,000 students each.

Suburban Excellence and Large-Scale Campuses

Education in Rockwall County is primarily suburban, with 19 schools in developed neighborhoods and 11 in remaining rural pockets. Campus sizes are significantly larger than state averages, with an enrollment of 757 students per school. Rockwall-Heath and Rockwall High School are the largest institutions, each hosting over 2,800 students.

Invest in a Home Near Top-Rated Districts

The incredible 98.5% graduation rate makes Rockwall County one of the most desirable suburban locations for families in North Texas. High demand for homes near Rockwall ISD campuses continues to drive the local real estate market. Look for properties today to secure your place in this high-performing educational environment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Rockwall County

via RiskByCounty

Rockwall County exceeds national risk average

Rockwall County's composite risk score of 70.74 earns a Relatively Low rating but runs well above the national average, indicating above-typical natural disaster exposure. The rapidly urbanizing Dallas suburb faces compound hazards from storm, flood, and seismic activity.

Higher risk than most Texas counties

At 70.74, Rockwall County ranks notably above Texas's 49.00 state average, placing it among the riskier counties statewide. This elevation reflects its Dallas metro location where tornado frequency and urban flooding converge.

Most dangerous county in Dallas metro

Rockwall County's 70.74 score far exceeds neighboring Dallas (58.12) and Collin (52.39) counties, making it the region's highest-risk jurisdiction. Its position at the northern edge of the metropolitan area captures severe weather exposure without big-city resilience resources.

Tornadoes dominate the risk profile

Tornado risk scores 93.70 in Rockwall County—among the highest in Texas—reflecting its position in Tornado Alley's northern reach. Wildfire (66.57) and flood risk (61.29) rank as secondary threats, both amplified by urban-interface development.

Tornado coverage and a safe room essential

Rockwall County homeowners must carry comprehensive homeowners coverage with explicit tornado and hail protection, and should invest in a reinforced safe room before severe season. Flood insurance is critical for any property within the Lake Ray Hubbard floodplain or local drainage corridors.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Rockwall County

via WaterByCounty

Rockwall County Earns a Solid B Grade

Rockwall County shows strong drinking water performance with only three health violations over five years. Its violation rate of 2.5 per 100,000 people is remarkably low, far outperforming the Texas state average of 581.9. This indicates that most residents have access to high-quality, compliant public water.

No Federal Watershed Data Available

The water bodies in Rockwall County have not been formally assessed for impairments under the §303(d) program. Because no ATTAINS data exists, there are no official records of failing water bodies or specific pollution causes. This makes it difficult to assess the environmental impact of rapid urban growth in the area.

Extensive Monitoring Data with Thousands of Records

Rockwall County features 17 active monitoring sites that have generated an impressive 18,887 measurements in five years. This dense data network tracks physical, inorganic, and nutrient levels with high frequency. Such comprehensive records allow for detailed analysis of water quality changes over time.

Squabble Creek Reaches Zero Flow

Squabble Creek near Rockwall is currently recording 0 cfs, a complete departure from its long-term mean of 10 cfs. This 0% flow indicates that this small 7-square-mile drainage area is currently experiencing extreme dry conditions. Stagnant or dry creek beds can negatively affect local ecosystems and the immediate water table.

Preserve Water Quality During Drought

With Squabble Creek currently dry, groundwater and reservoir levels are under increased pressure. Residents should practice water conservation to help maintain the county's strong B-grade water supply. While tap water remains safe, the total lack of streamflow is a signal to be mindful of local water usage.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Rockwall County

via WeatherByCounty

Humid Subtropical Conditions

While specific annual temperature data for Rockwall is limited, the region follows the warm, humid patterns of the Southern United States. It experiences significantly more precipitation than the national median.

Typical North Texas Rainfall

Rockwall County receives 37.5 inches of rain per year, which is over 5 inches more than the Texas average of 31.9 inches. This helps support the lush landscapes found just east of Dallas.

Mirroring the Dallas Metroplex

Rockwall matches the climate of neighboring Collin and Dallas counties with low annual snowfall of just 0.2 inches. It maintains the same humid subtropical moisture levels found across the North Texas region.

Wet Summers and Negligible Snow

The county sees almost no snow, averaging just 0.2 inches per year. While summer temperature data is unavailable, the 37.5 inches of rain suggests frequent thunderstorms during the warmer months.

Manage Moisture and Humidity

Given the 37.5 inches of annual rain, residents should focus on foundation protection and moisture control in homes. Lightweight clothing is essential for the humid, snow-free climate of the region.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Rockwall County

via SoilByCounty

Mystery Soils of Rockwall County

Specific data on pH and taxonomic order for Rockwall County is currently limited in federal surveys. However, nearby regional trends suggest the presence of Blackland Prairie clays that characterize this part of North Texas.

Awaiting Localized Soil Testing

Composition percentages for sand, silt, and clay are not currently documented in the primary dataset. Growers are encouraged to perform individual soil tests to determine the specific drainage needs of their property.

Fertility Potential in North Texas

While specific organic matter and water capacity data are unavailable, the region is known for historically productive soils. Most local areas require supplemental organic material to improve workability in heavy clay zones.

Managing Urban Drainage Patterns

With no specific hydrologic group assigned in this dataset, drainage varies significantly by localized urban development. Proper grading is essential in this rapidly growing county to prevent water from pooling near foundations.

Gardening Success in Zone 8b

Rockwall County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, supporting a wide range of Texas superstars like sage and lantana. Even without detailed data, your garden can flourish with native plants adapted to the local climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Rockwall County

via LawnByCounty

Texas's Premier Lawn Environment

Rockwall County is a standout performer with a lawn difficulty score of 84.0, indicating it is exceptionally easy to grow grass here compared to the national average of 50.0. In this Zone 8b region, nature does most of the heavy lifting for your curb appeal.

Reliable Rains Support Growth

Annual precipitation averages 37.5 inches, placing the county comfortably within the 30-50 inch ideal range for healthy turf. While temperature data is limited, the rainfall levels suggest a climate that supports consistent growth without constant irrigation.

Preparing Your Local Soil

Detailed soil metrics are unavailable for this county, but neighboring areas often feature the heavy clays of the Blackland Prairie. We recommend aerating your lawn annually to prevent compaction and ensure that the 37.5 inches of rain can reach the root zone.

Resilient Against Recent Dryness

Rockwall has experienced only 9 weeks of drought over the past year, the lowest on this list. While the area is currently abnormally dry, your lawn is much better positioned to recover quickly than those in more drought-prone Texas counties.

Starting Strong in Zone 8b

This hardiness zone is perfect for Bermuda, Zoysia, or St. Augustine grass. Given the high success rate in this county, late spring is the ideal time to lay sod and watch it thrive in these top-tier growing conditions.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rockwall County's county score?
Rockwall County, Texas has a composite county score of 40.6 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 Rockwall County rank among counties in Texas?
Rockwall County ranks #135 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 Rockwall County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Rockwall County is $6,341, with an effective tax rate of 1.64%. This earns Rockwall County a tax score of 8.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Rockwall County?
The median household income in Rockwall County, Texas is $124,917 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Rockwall County earns an income score of 98.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Rockwall County, Texas a good place to live?
Rockwall County scores 40.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #135 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Rockwall 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 Rockwall County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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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.