countyscore
37
County Score
Disaster Risk 90.8Cost of Living 61Weather & Climate 39.4

County Report Card

About Stephens County, Texas

Trailing National Livability Benchmarks

Stephens County has a composite score of 37.0, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This indicates significant room for development across several quality-of-life metrics.

Slightly Below the Texas Average

The county's score of 37.0 is lower than the Texas average of 41.9. It faces more socio-economic headwinds than the typical county in the Lone Star State.

Very Low Natural Disaster Risk

Stephens County excels in safety from natural disasters, earning a risk score of 90.8. Housing is also relatively accessible with a cost score of 61.0 and a median home value of $105,700.

High Taxes and Low Health Scores

A tax score of 7.6 reflects a high effective tax rate of 1.683%. Furthermore, the health score of 19.2 points to limited access to medical care and poor health outcomes.

A Safe Choice for Bargain Hunters

Stephens County suits those who prioritize disaster safety and low-cost entry into the housing market. It is less ideal for those requiring frequent medical attention or high-growth career paths.

204060801007.66139.319.238.124.590.837.939.4Tax7.6Cost61Safety39.3Health19.2Schools38.1Income24.5Risk90.8Water37.9Weather39.437/100
This county
National avg
2 above average7 below average

Stephens County DNA

Foverall

How Stephens County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Stephens County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (90.8/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (7.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
7.6-44.4
Cost
61+13
Safety
39.3-15.700000000000003
Health
19.2-30.8
Schools
38.1-15.899999999999999
Income
24.5-26.5
Risk
90.8+43.8
Water
37.9-20.1
Weather
39.4-16.6
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$105,700

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$802/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$105,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,080/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $54,695/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

21.6

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

Young County
Texas
46.2
Shackelford County
Texas
52.8
Eastland County
Texas
45.9
Throckmorton County
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57.4
Palo Pinto County
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31.7
Callahan County
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Jack County
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Haskell County
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44.5

Deep Dives

Stephens County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Stephens County

via TaxByCounty

Stephens County taxes above U.S. median

Stephens County's 1.683% effective tax rate significantly exceeds the U.S. median of 1.276%, placing it in the upper third of taxed counties nationally. While the median tax of $1,779 falls below the national median of $2,690, this reflects lower property values rather than tax breaks.

Stephens outpaces Texas average rate

At 1.683%, Stephens County's effective rate towers 32% above Texas's 1.276% state average, making it one of the state's higher-taxed counties. The median tax of $1,779 exceeds the state median by $414, highlighting the county's above-average burden.

Stephens taxes highest in regional cluster

Stephens County's 1.683% rate significantly surpasses nearby Sterling County (1.072%), Starr County (1.122%), and most rural neighbors. Only Sherman County (1.952%) exceeds Stephens among the surveyed west Texas counties.

Median Stephens home costs $1,779 yearly

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $105,700 in Stephens County pays approximately $1,779 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that rises to $2,153 including additional assessed costs.

Stephens owners should contest valuations

Stephens County's above-average tax rate makes accurate property assessments especially critical for homeowners' bottom lines. Review your appraisal notice carefully, and don't hesitate to file a free appeal if you believe your property value is overstated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Stephens County

via CostByCounty

Stephens slightly below national benchmark

Stephens County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% sits just below national affordability norms, with renters spending about one-sixth of their $54,695 income on housing. The county's median household income lags the national average by $20,060.

Solid affordability for Texas

Stephens's 17.6% rent-to-income ratio beats Texas's 18.1% state average, placing it slightly above the state norm for affordability. Median rent of $802 sits notably below the state average of $963.

Mid-range among comparison counties

Stephens renters pay $802 monthly—more than Stonewall's bargain $620 but less than Smith's $1,197. At $54,695, median income falls between lower-income counties and the more affluent Somervell and Sherman.

Balanced housing and income

Stephens renters dedicate 17.6% of their $54,695 income to housing, maintaining reasonable affordability margins. Homeowners spend $761 monthly on ownership costs—about 16.7% of median income—with homes valued at $105,700.

Moderate means, moderate costs

Stephens County delivers stable affordability: modest rents paired with modest incomes create balanced housing economics. Relocators seeking rural Texas without extreme affordability pressure will find Stephens a sensible option.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Stephens County

via IncomeByCounty

Below National Income, but Stable

Stephens County's median household income of $54,695 falls $20,060 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, a 27% gap. While below national averages, the county's income reflects a modestly constrained but functioning economic base.

Below-Average Texas County Income

At $54,695, Stephens trails the Texas county average of $64,737 by roughly $10,000, placing it in the lower-middle tier of Texas counties. The per capita income of $30,030 also falls below the state average of $33,197, suggesting limited individual earning opportunity.

Faces Tougher Conditions Than Some Peers

Stephens's $54,695 income ranks above only Shelby ($50,436) and Starr ($38,182) among peer counties, but significantly trails Shackelford ($64,659) and Sherman ($74,167). The county's economic position reflects moderate employment constraints relative to stronger regional peers.

Housing Costs Create Budget Pressure

Stephens's rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% sits above ideal affordability levels, claiming nearly one-fifth of median household income. With a median home value of $105,700, housing remains challenging for lower-earning households despite modest absolute prices.

Focus on Skill-Building and Savings

Stephens residents should explore vocational training and career advancement opportunities to boost household earning potential. Simultaneously, establish automatic savings plans—even $10 per paycheck—and take full advantage of any employer retirement matching to build financial stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Stephens County

via CrimeByCounty

Stephens County Maintains High Safety Scores

Stephens County reports a total crime rate of 1,382.3 per 100K, which is much lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a solid safety score of 97.8.

Better Than the Texas Average

With a safety score of 97.8, Stephens outperforms the Texas state average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 1,382.3 is also more favorable than the state average of 2,052.5.

Comparing Rates to Nearby Counties

Stephens County has a higher crime rate than neighboring Shackelford, which reports 574.3 per 100K. However, it remains safer than more urbanized counties like Smith at 1,932.1.

Analyzing Property vs. Violent Crime

The county sees 1,133.9 property crimes and 248.4 violent crimes per 100K residents. While violent crime is below the national average of 369.8, property crime is the dominant issue locally.

Securing Your Property in Stephens

Homeowners should prioritize securing outbuildings and vehicles, as property crimes make up the majority of reports. Basic security cameras can serve as a powerful deterrent to local theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Stephens County

via SchoolsByCounty

One Unified District System

Stephens County is served exclusively by Breckenridge ISD, which manages all four public schools in the county. These campuses support 1,409 students across elementary, middle, and high school levels.

High Graduation on Efficient Budgets

The 92.0% graduation rate is a local success story, surpassing the 87.0% national average. This is accomplished with a lean budget of $5,740 per pupil, which is significantly lower than the state and national averages.

Focus on Breckenridge ISD

As the sole district, Breckenridge ISD oversees all enrollment, with Breckenridge High School serving 424 students. The district also includes East Elementary and South Elementary to provide specialized primary education.

Small-Town Feel in Every Classroom

All four schools are located in town settings, providing a consistent environment for students as they advance. The average school size is 352 students, ensuring that teachers and students form close connections.

A Single-District Community Advantage

Buying a home in Breckenridge means joining a focused educational community where all schools are centrally located. Families appreciate the simplicity and high performance of this town-centered school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Stephens County

via RiskByCounty

Stephens: Very Low Risk Nationally

Stephens County's composite risk score of 9.22 places it among America's safest counties, far below the national average. Your county enjoys exceptional protection from major natural disaster threats.

Among Texas's Safest

At 9.22, Stephens ranks among the lowest-risk counties in Texas, sitting 81% below the state average of 49.00. Only Sterling, Shackelford, and Somervell approach this elite safety tier.

Safest in West-Central Texas

Stephens County stands as one of the safest in its region, competing with Sterling (1.11) and Shackelford (1.43) for top honors. Your location in west Texas shields you from coastal and eastern hazard corridors.

Wildfire Your Primary Hazard

Wildfire risk (76.02) is Stephens County's dominant concern, though overall county risk remains very low. Hurricane (26.91) and tornado (34.00) risks are minimal, reflecting your inland western position.

Wildfire Coverage Recommended

While Stephens County's overall risk is very low, wildfire deserves attention given the 76.02 risk score. Verify your homeowners insurance includes wildfire coverage and maintain clear space around structures.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Stephens County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Compliance in Stephens

Stephens County holds an 'F' grade for drinking water compliance based on 4 health violations over five years. Despite the low grade, the violation rate of 37.5 per 100,000 is far below the state average of 581.9. This suggests that while violations are infrequent, they are severe enough to trigger a failing grade.

Federal Watershed Health Data Status

The water bodies within Stephens County have not been assessed for impairment under the current federal Clean Water Act §303(d) cycle. Consequently, no data exists regarding the percentage of impaired water bodies or specific pollutants. This lack of federal reporting makes local monitoring data even more vital.

Robust Water Quality Data Collection

The county features 20 monitoring sites that have produced 9,981 measurements over the last five years. These efforts primarily track physical characteristics, inorganics, and nutrients. This high volume of data offers a comprehensive look at the chemical health of the county’s water systems.

Zero Flow Recorded at Hubbard Creek

The USGS gauge at Hubbard Creek near Breckenridge currently reports a discharge of 0 cfs. This is a complete cessation of flow compared to the long-term mean of 71 cfs. This stagnant condition represents an extreme hydrological drought for the local creek system.

Guidance for Stressed Water Systems

With Hubbard Creek at 0% of its typical flow, residents should be aware that stagnant surface water can lead to increased nutrient concentrations and algae growth. Although the violation rate is low, the 'F' grade indicates that residents should remain cautious and test private wells. Utilizing home filters can help manage potential spikes in inorganic contaminants during periods of low flow.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Stephens County

via WeatherByCounty

Sun-Drenched and Mildly Arid

Stephens County records an average annual temperature of 63.7°F, placing it nearly 10 degrees above the national median. The region is relatively dry, with 29.7 inches of annual precipitation compared to the national average.

Slightly Cooler than the Texas Median

At 63.7°F, the county is about two degrees cooler than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. It also receives 29.7 inches of rain, which is slightly less than the statewide average of 31.9 inches.

Comparing North-Central Neighbors

Stephens shares an identical extreme heat profile with Somervell County, with both seeing 109 days over 90°F. However, Stephens is drier, receiving nearly 5 inches less rain annually than its neighbor to the east.

Hot Summers and Light Winter Dustings

Summer temperatures average 82.2°F, but the county sees 109 days reach the 90°F mark. Winters are cool with a 44.8°F average and 1.6 inches of annual snowfall.

Balance Cooling Needs with Winter Readiness

While heat is the primary concern, the 1.6 inches of snow and sub-freezing winter nights require insulated piping. Dual-purpose HVAC systems are recommended to handle both the 109 heat days and the winter chill.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Stephens County

via SoilByCounty

Productive Alfisols of North Central Texas

Stephens County is characterized by Alfisols, a taxonomic order known for being naturally productive and nutrient-rich. The soil is slightly alkaline with a pH of 7.27, sitting just above the state average of 7.09. These soils are foundational to the region's diverse agricultural and ranching history.

The Versatility of Clay Loam

The dominant texture is clay loam, featuring 24.6% clay and 43.8% sand. This mix provides enough clay for nutrient retention while the sand ensures the soil doesn't become impossibly heavy. It is a robust, workable soil that supports both native grasses and cultivated crops.

Above Average Organic Matter

The soil contains 1.70% organic matter, placing it just above the Texas state average of 1.66%. Its water capacity of 0.136 in/in also beats the state benchmark, providing a steady moisture supply for plants. These factors combine to create a soil profile with high growing potential for local farmers.

Well Drained but Slow Moving

While classified as well-drained, the soil falls into Hydrologic Group C, which has a somewhat slow rate of water transmission. This means that while it handles normal rain well, heavy downpours may lead to temporary surface saturation. Careful land grading is recommended for new gardens or construction projects.

Diverse Options for Zone 8a

Zone 8a allows for a wide range of planting, from pecans and peaches to summer squash and okra. The clay loam provides a sturdy base for deep-rooted perennials that can withstand the Texas wind. Dig in and start your garden; your soil has the structure to support a bountiful harvest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Stephens County

via LawnByCounty

Cultivating Stephens County

Stephens County presents a 32.4 lawn score, slightly easier than the state average but much harder than the 50.0 national benchmark. Located in Zone 8a, this area requires careful management of both water and soil health.

Supplemental Watering Needs

The 29.7 inches of annual rain is just below the 30-inch ideal threshold, making supplemental irrigation necessary. With 109 days hitting 90°F or higher, your mowing height should be kept high to shade the soil during summer.

Healthy Soil Mixture

This clay loam soil is well-drained with a 7.27 pH, which is very close to the ideal range for most turf. The 24.6% clay content provides good structure, but the 43.8% sand helps prevent the heavy compaction common in the region.

Strategic Irrigation Planning

All of Stephens County is currently abnormally dry, having navigated 24 weeks of drought over the past year. Focused watering in the early morning hours is the best way to minimize loss to evaporation in this climate.

Planting for the Heat

Buffalograss or Bermuda are excellent choices for the 5,869 growing degree days found here. Start your lawn projects after the April 4th frost to ensure your grass settles in before the triple-digit heat arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stephens County's county score?
Stephens County, Texas has a composite county score of 37 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 Stephens County rank among counties in Texas?
Stephens County ranks #168 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 Stephens County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Stephens County is $1,779, with an effective tax rate of 1.68%. This earns Stephens County a tax score of 7.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Stephens County?
The median household income in Stephens County, Texas is $54,695 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Stephens County earns an income score of 24.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Stephens County, Texas a good place to live?
Stephens County scores 37/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #168 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Stephens 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 Stephens County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & 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.