countyscore
29.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 71.5Schools 46.4Lawn Care 39.2

County Report Card

About Smith County, Texas

Significant Room for National Improvement

Smith County scores 29.6 overall, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a combination of high costs and environmental vulnerabilities compared to the rest of the country.

Lagging Behind Texas Average Scores

With a score of 29.6, Smith County trails the Texas state average of 41.9. Despite its regional importance, the data shows the county faces more challenges than the typical Texas county.

Strong Incomes in East Texas

The county's primary strength is its economy, featuring an income score of 71.3. The median household income of $71,923 provides residents with significant purchasing power relative to the region.

Natural Risks and High Costs

Smith County struggles with a low risk score of 15.8 and a cost score of 19.6. Higher median rents of $1,197 and exposure to natural hazards weigh down the overall livability index.

Suited for High-Income Urban Professionals

This county is best for established professionals who can leverage the strong local economy to offset higher living costs. Residents should be mindful of the lower safety and high risk scores.

204060801002518.923.63146.471.515.824.730.6Tax25Cost18.9Safety23.6Health31Schools46.4Income71.5Risk15.8Water24.7Weather30.629.7/100
This county
National avg
1 above average7 below average

Smith County DNA

Foverall

How Smith County compares to the national average across nine baseline dimensions

Smith County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Water Quality (24.7/100), though Income (71.5/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
25-27
Cost
18.9-29.1
Safety
23.6-31.4
Health
31-19
Schools
46.4
Income
71.5+20.5
Risk
15.8-31.2
Water
24.7-33.3
Weather
30.6-25.4
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Compare mortgage rates in Smith County

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

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$240,700

National median: $185,300

Median Rent

$1,238/mo

National median: $877/mo

Income Needed (home)

$240,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$49,520/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.2x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $74,192/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

34.5

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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Nearby counties

Wood County
Texas
50.5
Upshur County
Texas
42
Gregg County
Texas
28.3
Van Zandt County
Texas
41.4
Camp County
Texas
43.5
Rusk County
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41.1
Rains County
Texas
46.9
Henderson County
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37.6

Deep Dives

Smith County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Smith County

via TaxByCounty

Smith County taxes align with national norm

Smith County's 1.245% effective tax rate sits just below the U.S. median of 1.276%, placing it squarely in the middle of the national spectrum. Residents pay $2,749 annually on a median home worth $220,800—slightly above the national median tax of $2,690.

Smith ranks near Texas average

Smith County's 1.245% effective rate is nearly identical to Texas's 1.276% state average, making it a typical Texas county by tax burden. At $2,749, the median tax bill exceeds the state median by $556, reflecting Smith's higher home values relative to less-urbanized counties.

Smith taxes less than Somervell nearby

Smith County's 1.245% rate is higher than Starr County (1.122%) but lower than neighboring Somervell County (0.967%), putting it in the middle of the regional range. This reflects Smith's position as a more developed, urban county compared to surrounding rural areas.

Median Smith home costs $2,749 yearly

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $220,800 in Smith County pays approximately $2,749 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that amount climbs to $3,186 when mortgage-based assessments are factored in.

Smith homeowners should check assessments

Property overassessment affects thousands of Texas homeowners each year, and Smith County is no exception. A simple appeal to your county appraisal district—filed by the deadline, typically in May—can challenge inflated valuations and potentially save hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Income & Jobs in Smith County

via IncomeByCounty

Slightly Below National Household Income

Smith County's median household income of $71,923 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by about $2,800, or 4%. While below the national average, the gap is modest, indicating Smith households earn near-typical American levels.

Above Texas County Average

At $71,923, Smith ranks solidly above the Texas county average of $64,737, placing it in the upper-middle income tier statewide. The county's per capita income of $34,785 also exceeds Texas's $33,197 average, reflecting healthy earning across the population.

Mid-Range Performer Regionally

Smith's $71,923 income positions it above Shackelford ($64,659), Shelby ($50,436), and Stephens ($54,695), but below Somervell ($83,382) and Sterling ($78,750). The county offers competitive wages alongside proximity to larger regional employment centers.

Housing Costs Squeeze Some Households

Smith's rent-to-income ratio of 20.0% sits elevated compared to national affordability standards, indicating housing claims one-fifth of median household income. The median home value of $220,800 reflects a competitive real estate market that strains less-affluent residents.

Balance Housing with Savings Goals

While housing costs are notable, Smith households can still allocate meaningful funds toward retirement and investment vehicles. Review your mortgage terms and consider refinancing opportunities or home equity strategies to free up capital for wealth-building.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Smith County

via CrimeByCounty

Smith County Remains Safer Than National Average

Smith County reports 1,932.1 total crimes per 100K, which is safer than the national average of 2,385.5. This data gives the county a respectable safety score of 96.9.

Consistent with Texas Safety Standards

The county's safety score of 96.9 sits just above the Texas state average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 1,932.1 also stays slightly below the state average of 2,052.5.

Higher Activity than Rural Neighbors

Smith County has a higher crime rate at 1,932.1 compared to nearby Shelby County's 1,568.9. As a more populated hub with 15 reporting agencies, more recorded activity is expected.

Property Offenses Predominate Local Reports

Property crimes occur at a rate of 1,540.5 per 100K, while violent crimes are reported at 391.6. Violent crime here is slightly higher than the national average of 369.8, requiring more attention.

Focusing on Domestic Security Measures

Given that property crime is the most frequent issue, home alarm systems are a wise investment for Smith County residents. Secure windows and doors remain the first line of defense.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Weather & Climate in Smith County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate Warmth in East Texas

Smith County maintains an annual average of 66.5°F, staying well above the national median. This area enjoys the lush, green environment typical of the humid subtropical South.

Above Average Heat and Rain

The county is 1 degree warmer and 13 inches wetter than the Texas state averages. Its 44.9 inches of annual precipitation makes it one of the more hydrated regions in the state.

Standard Heat with Abundant Water

Smith County shares the high humidity of its East Texas neighbors, recording 97 extreme heat days. Its 44.9 inches of rain keeps the landscape significantly greener than central or west Texas.

Warm Summers and Soft Winters

Summer averages reach 82.8°F, while winter stays mild at 49.8°F. While specific snowfall data is unavailable, the region is known for its humid summers and temperate, wet winters.

Planning for Humidity and Heat

With 97 extreme heat days and high rainfall, humidity control in homes is essential. Residents should prepare for heavy rain events given the 44.9 inches of annual precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Smith County

via SoilByCounty

The Acidic Character of East Texas

Smith County soils are distinctly acidic with an average pH of 5.31, falling far below the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.09. This low pH defines the region's agricultural identity and determines which specialty crops thrive. These conditions are typical for the Piney Woods region where leaching is more frequent.

Dominated by Course Sandy Grains

The soil is overwhelmingly sandy at 63.8%, paired with a low clay content of only 10.7%. This coarse mix ensures excellent aeration but often leads to rapid nutrient leaching and fast drainage. Gardeners will notice the soil is easy to till but dries out quickly during the summer heat.

Low Organic Matter Challenges

Organic matter levels average 1.08%, which is significantly lower than the Texas average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is also low at 0.105 in/in, falling short of the state benchmark of 0.133 in/in. These numbers suggest that frequent composting and mulching are essential to maintain soil productivity.

Low Infiltration in Group D

Despite the sandy texture, the soil is classified in Hydrologic Group D, suggesting restricted water movement through the deeper layers. This can lead to surprising surface saturation despite the fast-draining surface sand. Site planning for buildings and gardens must account for this complex water behavior.

A Paradise for Acid-Loving Plants

Located in Hardiness Zone 8b, Smith County is famous for its roses and blueberries which love the naturally acidic soil. Azaleas and camellias also thrive here, making it a dream for ornamental gardeners. With proper irrigation and organic additions, your East Texas garden can be incredibly lush.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Smith County

via LawnByCounty

Thriving in Smith County

Smith County’s 39.2 score suggests a moderate challenge, comfortably outperforming the state average of 31.7. This Zone 8b region provides better growing conditions than many western neighbors, though it remains tougher than the national median.

Optimal Rainfall Patterns

You benefit from 44.9 inches of annual rain, which falls perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal range for turf. Even with 97 extreme heat days, the consistent moisture supports a robust growing season of 6,514 degree days.

Sandy Soil Nutrient Needs

Local soil is quite acidic at 5.31 pH, requiring lime treatments to reach the preferred 6.0-7.0 levels. With a high sand content of 63.8%, your lawn will need consistent fertilization as nutrients leach through the porous ground.

Drought-Resistant Practices

The county has managed only 12 weeks in drought over the last year, though 16.6% currently faces severe conditions. Use your rain barrel during these periods to supplement the 44.9 inches of natural annual precipitation.

Timing Your Smith Lawn

Zoysia or Bermuda are top performers that can handle the early March 8th spring frost. These varieties are resilient enough to survive the summer heat while capitalizing on the county’s abundant seasonal rainfall.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Smith County's county score?
Smith County, Texas has a composite county score of 29.7 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 Smith County rank among counties in Texas?
Smith County ranks #218 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 Smith County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Smith County is $2,804, with an effective tax rate of 1.16%. This earns Smith County a tax score of 25/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Smith County?
The median household income in Smith County, Texas is $74,192 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Smith County earns an income score of 71.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Smith County, Texas a good place to live?
Smith County scores 29.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #218 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Smith 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 Smith County with other counties side by side.
By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.