countyscore
42.3
County Score
Disaster Risk 73.5Schools 69.7Cost of Living 57.5

County Report Card

About Runnels County, Texas

Competitive Rural Profile

Runnels County earns a composite score of 42.2, trailing the national median of 50.0. While lower than the national mark, it maintains stability through strong community institutions.

Mirroring the Texas Average

With a score of 42.2, the county is almost exactly aligned with the Texas state average of 41.9. It provides a standard Texas rural experience with a focus on education and low environmental risk.

Stability and Quality Schools

The county excels in environmental safety with a risk score of 73.5 and in local education with a school score of 69.7. Income levels are also respectable for the region, scoring 49.5.

Water and Tax Hurdles

Water quality is a significant issue, scoring a very low 3.4. Additionally, the tax score of 14.7 indicates a higher-than-average tax burden relative to the available local services.

Stable Home for Working Families

Runnels County is a solid choice for families looking for a low-risk environment and dependable schools. It suits those who appreciate a predictable, small-town lifestyle and have access to private water solutions.

Score breakdown

Tax14.7Cost57.5Safety42.9Health18.9Schools69.7Income49.5Risk73.5Water3.4Weather38.7
🏛14.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠57.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼49.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡42.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤18.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓69.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡73.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧3.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤38.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨28.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱22
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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Nearby counties

Coke County
Texas
48.8
Concho County
Texas
47.8
Nolan County
Texas
36.4
Coleman County
Texas
46.9
Taylor County
Texas
41.9
Tom Green County
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Callahan County
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McCulloch County
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40.1

Deep Dives

Runnels County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Runnels County

via TaxByCounty

Runnels taxes exceed national median noticeably

Runnels County's effective tax rate of 1.464% surpasses the national median of 1.276%, placing it among higher-taxed U.S. counties. The median annual tax of $1,518 on homes worth $103,700 falls well below the national median tax of $2,690, offset by substantially lower home values than the $281,900 national average.

Runnels ranks well above Texas average

At 1.464%, Runnels County's effective rate exceeds the Texas state average of 1.276%, placing it in the upper third of state counties. The $1,518 median tax trails the state median of $2,193, reflecting higher rates applied to lower-valued homes.

Runnels carries second-highest regional rate

Only Refugio County (1.404%) comes close to Runnels's 1.464% rate among regional peers; Robertson (0.917%) and Rusk (1.001%) tax far more lightly. Runnels residents face a notably steeper burden than most nearby counties despite modest home values.

Median home costs about $1,518 yearly

On Runnels County's median home valued at $103,700, you'll pay roughly $1,518 annually in property taxes—approximately $126 per month. With a mortgage, lenders may collect closer to $2,184 through escrow arrangements.

Challenge assessments in higher-tax environment

Runnels County's above-average rates make assessment reviews especially worthwhile; any reduction directly cuts a heavier-than-normal burden. Homeowners should investigate whether their appraised values match recent comparable sales in the county.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Runnels County

via CostByCounty

Runnels maintains solid affordability

Runnels County's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below Texas's 18.1% state average and well below national norms. With median household income of $63,490 and median rent of $894, Runnels achieves reliable housing affordability for a rural Texas county.

Runnels ranks above median

Runnels County places in the top 40% of Texas counties for rental affordability, with a 16.9% ratio that beats roughly 60% of the state's counties. This central Texas community delivers better-than-average housing balance within its state context.

Runnels outperforms most peers

Runnels's 16.9% rent burden beats Red River (23.1%), Reeves (21.1%), and Refugio (17.4%), though it trails Roberts and Robertson (both 14.0%). The county's combination of decent income and moderate rents creates a stable affordability profile.

Runnels's sustainable housing balance

Runnels households earning $63,490 annually spend $894 monthly in rent—approximately $10,728 per year—while homeowners average $682 in monthly costs. Housing takes roughly 17% of gross income, leaving 83% for taxes, utilities, food, and savings.

Solid value in central Texas

Runnels County offers above-average affordability with median home values of $103,700 and reliable income-to-housing ratios. The central Texas location provides reasonable access to larger employment markets, making it attractive for remote workers or those seeking small-town life without extreme isolation.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Runnels County

via IncomeByCounty

Runnels County trails national income modestly

Runnels County's median household income of $63,490 runs about $11,265 below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it in the lower-middle tier nationally. The per capita income of $31,419 approaches the national average, suggesting reasonably solid earning power.

Near Texas state average for income

Runnels County's $63,490 median income sits just $1,247 below the Texas county average of $64,737, ranking it squarely in the middle of the state's counties. The per capita income of $31,419 closely matches the state's $33,197, indicating fairly even income distribution.

Runnels ranks middle among rural counties

Runnels County's $63,490 sits between the lower-income rural counties (Real, Red River, Reeves) and the higher earners (Roberts, Robertson). It outpaces most truly rural Texas counties while trailing Rockwall's suburban prosperity.

Housing costs support comfortable living

Runnels County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.9% is well below the 30% concern threshold, leaving households substantial budget flexibility. The median home value of $103,700 is highly affordable, making homeownership realistic for families earning the county median.

Balance homeownership with retirement savings

With $63,490 income and a 16.9% rent ratio, Runnels County households should prioritize both home equity building and retirement savings accounts. The affordable $103,700 median home value means owning positions you to build substantial wealth over 20-30 years.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Runnels County

via CrimeByCounty

Runnels County Safety Overview

Runnels County maintains a solid safety score of 98.0, reflecting a secure environment for its residents. The total crime rate of 1,288.3 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These statistics highlight a county that is safer than much of the United States.

Safe and Sound in Central Texas

The county's safety score of 98.0 is higher than the Texas state average of 96.8. With a total crime rate of 1,288.3, it also performs much better than the state average of 2,052.5 per 100K. Four local agencies provide consistent reporting for the area.

Regional Comparisons in the Heart of Texas

Runnels County exhibits lower crime rates than several of its more populous neighboring counties. Law enforcement across four agencies ensures a comprehensive approach to community safety. It remains a stable and secure region compared to neighboring trade hubs.

Understanding Local Crime Trends

The violent crime rate is 202.9 per 100K, which is well below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also lower than the national norm, at 1,085.4 per 100K versus 2,015.7. Most reported incidents involve property rather than personal safety.

Keeping Your Property Secure

To deter property-related crimes, residents should ensure that all home and vehicle locks are in good working order. Simple additions like motion sensors can provide an extra layer of protection. Staying connected with neighbors is a proven way to keep the community safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Runnels County

via HealthByCounty

Runnels County near national health benchmark

Runnels County residents live an average of 72.8 years—4.2 years below the U.S. average of 77.0 years. The 22.0% poor or fair health rate is moderate, reflecting manageable chronic disease burden.

Below Texas state average, room for improvement

At 72.8 years, Runnels County's life expectancy is 1.5 years below Texas's state average of 74.3 years. The county ranks in the lower half of Texas health outcomes.

Strong primary care, adequate mental health access

Runnels County has 70 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 51 mental health providers per 100K—both solid figures that support accessible healthcare. These provider levels compare favorably to Real County and exceed many regional peers.

Insurance gaps persist despite provider supply

Runnels County's 20.7% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 19.8%, meaning coverage gaps undermine the benefits of available providers. One in five residents delay or skip care due to cost.

Don't waste Runnels's healthcare assets

With strong provider access, Runnels County's uninsured residents are missing a real opportunity. Visit Healthcare.gov to find affordable plans and start using the doctors and mental health providers your county has available.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Runnels County

via SchoolsByCounty

Twelve Schools Across Four Local Districts

Runnels County manages an enrollment of 2,015 students across 12 public schools. The landscape is evenly distributed with three elementary, three middle, and three high schools, plus three alternative campuses. Four separate districts provide education to the county's residents with no charter schools currently in operation.

Academic Success with High Graduation Rates

The county reports a 93.9% graduation rate, significantly outpacing the national average of 87.0% and the Texas average of 91.6%. Investment in students is solid at $7,780 per pupil, which is slightly above the state average. This support leads to a school score of 57.3, outperforming the state's median of 55.3.

Ballinger and Winters Districts Lead the Way

Ballinger ISD is the largest district in the county, operating five schools for 817 students. Winters ISD and Miles ISD also play major roles, serving 561 and 512 students respectively. These districts offer a traditional Texas public school experience with a strong focus on community involvement.

Intimate Learning in Rural and Town Locales

School sizes are very small, averaging only 168 students per campus across eight rural and four town-based schools. Ballinger Elementary is the largest campus with 368 students, ensuring that most students receive significant individual attention. The presence of three alternative schools also provides diverse paths for student success.

Find a Home in These High-Performing Districts

Families seeking high graduation rates and small class sizes will find Runnels County to be an excellent choice. Properties near Ballinger or Winters schools offer access to a supportive, well-funded education system. Check local real estate listings to find your next home in this high-achieving county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Runnels County

via RiskByCounty

Runnels County's risk stays safely below average

Runnels County scores 26.49 for composite disaster risk, earning a Very Low rating and sitting well below the national average. The county's remote West Central Texas location insulates it from most major hazard zones.

Below-average risk for Texas profile

At 26.49, Runnels County runs substantially below Texas's 49.00 state average, placing it among the safer counties statewide. This favorable standing reflects distance from coast, major rivers, and population centers.

Safer than surrounding Central Texas counties

Runnels County's Very Low rating outperforms neighboring Coleman (41.58) and Concho (54.73) counties, benefiting from less dramatic terrain and lower severe weather frequency. Its position away from major river systems reduces flood exposure relative to surrounding areas.

Wildfire and tornado create dual hazard

Wildfire risk scores 72.49 in Runnels County, making it the county's primary natural disaster concern tied to grassland fuel and seasonal drought. Tornado risk at 42.11 ranks second, reflecting typical Central Texas spring severe weather patterns.

Homeowners should prioritize wildfire coverage

Runnels County residents should verify that wildfire damage is explicitly covered in their homeowners policies, as coverage gaps are common in rural Texas. Standard homeowners policies typically cover tornado damage, but hail protection should be confirmed during policy review.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Runnels County

via WeatherByCounty

Sunny and Semi-Arid

Runnels County has an annual average temperature of 64.0°F, placing it well above the national median. It sits just below the Texas state average of 65.5°F, reflecting its position in the drier central plains.

Drier Than the State Average

Runnels averages 24.2 inches of rain, which is nearly 8 inches less than the Texas average of 31.9 inches. Its 64.0°F annual temperature makes it slightly cooler than the deep southern counties of the state.

A Transition Zone Climate

Similar to neighboring Taylor and Tom Green counties, Runnels experiences high heat and low moisture. It receives only 1.0 inch of snow annually, typical for this part of West-Central Texas.

Over 100 Days of Heat

The county faces 110 days of extreme heat over 90°F, leading to a scorching July average of 82.6°F. Winters remain relatively mild with a January average of 43.8°F.

Plan for Intense Summer Heat

With 110 extreme heat days, residents must prioritize sun protection and efficient air conditioning. The dry 24.2 inches of annual rain means water conservation is a practical necessity for local landscaping.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Runnels County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Earths of Central Texas

Runnels County features a pH of 7.63, which is more alkaline than the state average of 7.09 and the national median of 6.5. This level is common for the rolling plains and affects which micronutrients are available to plants.

A Firm Clay-Silt Foundation

The soil mix contains 40.1% sand, 29.5% silt, and 29.8% clay. This relatively high clay content provides good structural support for deep-rooted crops but can be difficult to plow when dry.

Above Average Fertility Levels

At 1.97%, the organic matter content is significantly higher than the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.139 in/in also beats the state average, providing a better buffer against drought.

Slow Infiltration and Group D

The soil is classified under Hydrologic Group D, meaning it has high runoff potential and slow water movement. This makes it crucial to manage erosion on sloped fields and plan for drainage in gardens.

Productive Seasons in Zone 8a

Hardiness Zone 8a offers a long season for cotton, sorghum, and home vegetable gardens. The high organic matter means your plants have a head start on nutrition in this productive central county.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Runnels County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Conditions in Runnels County

Lawn care in Runnels County is a challenge, with a difficulty score of 22.0 that falls well below the Texas state average of 31.7. Homeowners in this Zone 8a region must work harder than most to maintain a green space.

High Heat and Low Precipitation

The county faces 110 extreme heat days annually and receives only 24.2 inches of rain, which is below the 30-inch ideal minimum. These factors, combined with 5,842 growing degree days, create a climate that favors only the most heat-hardy grass varieties.

Managing Alkaline Clay Soils

The soil pH of 7.63 is alkaline, which can sometimes lock out essential nutrients like iron. With nearly 30% clay content, the ground can become very hard when dry, making regular aeration vital for water penetration.

Staying Green Through 28 Dry Weeks

Runnels County has endured 28 weeks of drought in the past year, and the entire area is currently classified as abnormally dry. Implementing a cycle-and-soak watering method will help moisture penetrate the heavy clay soil without running off.

Selecting Hardy Grass Varieties

Bermudagrass is the most resilient choice for these conditions once the risk of frost passes on April 3rd. Aim to have your lawn established by early May to ensure it has deep roots before the 110 days of extreme summer heat arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Runnels County's county score?
Runnels County, Texas has a composite county score of 42.3 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 Runnels County rank among counties in Texas?
Runnels County ranks #119 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 Runnels County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Runnels County is $1,518, with an effective tax rate of 1.46%. This earns Runnels County a tax score of 14.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Runnels County?
The median household income in Runnels County, Texas is $63,490 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Runnels County earns an income score of 49.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Runnels County, Texas a good place to live?
Runnels County scores 42.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #119 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Runnels 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 Runnels 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.