countyscore
43.6
County Score
Disaster Risk 86.6Cost of Living 86Property Tax 67.1

County Report Card

About Tillman County, Oklahoma

Surprising Resilience in the Southwest

Tillman County's composite score of 43.6 approaches the national median of 50.0 more closely than many of its neighbors. This score reflects an impressive balance of low costs and environmental safety. It is a resilient outlier in a largely rural landscape.

Outperforming the Oklahoma Average

With a 43.6 score, Tillman County exceeds the Oklahoma state average of 43.0. This makes it one of the more balanced rural options in the state for overall quality of life. It stands out as a high-performing choice for those staying within Oklahoma.

Exceptional Safety and Affordability

A risk score of 86.6 and a cost score of 86.0 make this a sanctuary for both your wallet and your peace of mind. The median home value is an incredibly low $71,900, the lowest in this group. You will find extreme financial breathing room here with an effective tax rate of 0.663%.

Economic and Water Limitations

The water score of 1.4 is a critical infrastructure concern that impacts long-term sustainability. Additionally, an income score of 10.1 reflects a low median household income of $47,445. These factors suggest that while it is cheap to live here, finding high-wage work locally is difficult.

The Ultimate Choice for Frugality

Tillman County is the premier destination for those looking to live with minimal expenses and maximum environmental safety. It is ideally suited for retirees or anyone looking to live mortgage-free. Residents trade high wages for one of the lowest costs of living in America.

Score breakdown

Tax67.1Cost86Safety18.7Health12.1Schools36.5Income10.1Risk86.6Water1.4Weather43.4
🏛67.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠86
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼10.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡18.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤12.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓36.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡86.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧1.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨31.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱26
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

Wilbarger County
Texas
35.2
Wichita County
Texas
44.3
Jackson County
Oklahoma
36.9
Cotton County
Oklahoma
42
Comanche County
Oklahoma
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Kiowa County
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Hardeman County
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Clay County
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Deep Dives

Tillman County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Tillman County

via TaxByCounty

Tillman County taxes below U.S. median

At 0.663%, Tillman County's effective tax rate falls slightly below the national median of 0.73%, placing it in the bottom 40% of U.S. counties. The $477 median annual property tax represents just 18% of the national median of $2,690.

Below-average taxes in Oklahoma

Tillman ranks 11th among Oklahoma's 77 counties with its 0.663% effective rate, just above the state average of 0.652%. Property owners pay $482 less annually than Oklahoma's state median of $959.

Similar to Cotton, slightly lower than Comanche

Tillman's 0.663% rate tracks with neighboring Cotton County (around 0.66%) and runs slightly below Comanche County (roughly 0.68%), making it a relatively affordable area in southwest Oklahoma.

Lowest median home value at $71,900

Tillman County has the lowest median home value among these eight counties at just $71,900, resulting in $477 in median annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay $911 yearly; those without pay $360.

Appeal assessments to lower taxes further

Even in lower-value properties, overassessment happens frequently in Tillman County. Requesting a formal assessment review against recent sales comparables could eliminate unnecessary tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Tillman County

via CostByCounty

Tillman County offers genuine rental affordability

Tillman County's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably within the affordable zone, where renters spend less than the 30% threshold economists recommend. At just $704/month against a median income of $47,445, Tillman offers some of the region's most budget-friendly rents.

Below Oklahoma's average affordability bar

Tillman County's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio undercuts Oklahoma's state average of 17.0% by 0.8 percentage points, ranking it among the state's more affordable rental markets. This positioning reflects modest rents ($704) that align well with modest incomes.

Second-most affordable in the panhandle

Tillman County's $704 monthly rent ranks second-lowest in the region, trailing only Roger Mills' $708 by just $4/month. This pairing makes Tillman and Roger Mills the panhandle's twin affordability champions for renters.

Ownership offers steeper relief than typical

Renters spend $704/month (17.8% of income) while homeowners pay $576/month (14.5% of income) on median household earnings of $47,445. Tillman's low ownership costs stand out: homeowners enjoy rates roughly 18% cheaper than renters, a significant gap that reflects affordable home values ($71,900).

Tillman County rewards budget-conscious residents

If you prioritize affordability, Tillman County's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Oklahoma's best, matched only by Roger Mills—and your $704 rent leaves more income for emergency savings and quality of life. Compare these numbers to your current housing costs and consider whether the panhandle's exceptional affordability justifies the trade-offs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Tillman County

via IncomeByCounty

Tillman County significantly lags national income

At $47,445, Tillman County's median household income trails the national median of $74,755 by over $27,000—a 36% gap. The county ranks among the lowest-income areas in the nation, reflecting severe economic headwinds.

Well below Oklahoma state average

Tillman County's $47,445 median household income sits $10,828 below Oklahoma's state average of $58,273. The county ranks in Oklahoma's lowest income quartile, signaling the need for economic revitalization and job creation.

Among the county's poorest

Tillman County earns less than Seminole ($46,191)—one of the state's lowest—and trails Sequoyah ($49,795), Stephens ($60,236), and Texas ($59,275). Its low income reflects agricultural decline, limited business diversity, and outmigration of younger workers.

Housing costs significantly strain budgets

At 17.8%, Tillman County's rent-to-income ratio approaches the uncomfortable threshold, absorbing a large share of household income. The median home value of $71,900 is the county's advantage, offering one of the most affordable housing markets in the state.

Build wealth incrementally and strategically

Tillman County residents should focus first on free or low-cost financial tools: employer 401(k) matches, state assistance programs, and community credit union savings accounts with minimal fees. Even $5–10 per paycheck saved consistently compounds over decades—consistency beats amount when starting from a tighter budget.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Tillman County

via CrimeByCounty

Tillman County Safety Overview

Tillman County maintains a safety score of 96.6, which is better than the national baseline. Its total crime rate of 2,153.1 per 100,000 residents is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These numbers suggest a relatively stable environment for the county's population.

Performing Well Within Oklahoma

The county's safety score of 96.6 stands above the Oklahoma state average of 95.8. Furthermore, its crime rate of 2,153.1 is significantly lower than the Oklahoma state average of 2,647.7. Four local agencies work to maintain this level of security across the county.

Comparing Tillman to Nearby Jurisdictions

Tillman County’s total crime rate of 2,153.1 is very similar to Seminole County’s 2,191.5. However, Tillman reports a higher violent crime rate of 413.5 compared to Seminole’s 237.4. It remains safer overall than Sequoyah County, which has a total crime rate of 2,379.9.

Violent vs. Property Crime Realities

The violent crime rate in Tillman County is 413.5, which exceeds both the national average of 369.8 and the state average of 395.9. Conversely, property crime is lower at 1,739.6 per 100,000 people. This indicates that while property is safer, physical safety requires more attention.

Enhancing Safety in Tillman County

Because the violent crime rate is slightly elevated, residents should prioritize well-lit entryways and home alarm systems. Being aware of your surroundings and reporting suspicious activity to the four local agencies helps everyone. Community vigilance is the best defense against local crime.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Tillman County

via HealthByCounty

Tillman County falls short of U.S. health

At 71.8 years, Tillman County's life expectancy trails the U.S. average of 73.5 years by 1.7 years, signaling below-average population health. The county's 25.7% poor/fair health rate—well above the national 21% average—reflects a community facing substantial chronic disease and health limitation challenges.

Ranks low within Oklahoma counties

Tillman County's 71.8-year life expectancy falls 0.9 years below Oklahoma's state average of 72.7 years, placing it among the lower-performing counties. The 25.7% poor/fair health rate reinforces that Tillman County faces deeper health challenges than most of Oklahoma.

Struggles with limited provider access

Tillman County's 71.8-year life expectancy and 25.7% poor/fair health rate place it among the region's most challenged counties, similar to Seminole County (69.0 years) and Sequoyah County (70.3 years). The critical distinction: Tillman County has only 14 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the lowest in this profile—severely limiting routine care access.

Severe primary care shortage with high uninsurance

At 17.5% uninsured, Tillman County exceeds Oklahoma's 15.3% state average, but the real crisis is provider scarcity: just 14 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, less than one-seventh of Rogers County's 37. Even insured residents struggle to find primary care physicians, making preventive care access a critical barrier to better health outcomes.

Insurance first, then seek care

Tillman County's 17.5% uninsured rate compounds an already severe provider shortage—getting covered is your first step. Visit Healthcare.gov or contact the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to enroll in Medicaid or an ACA plan, then connect with Federally Qualified Health Centers offering care to underserved rural areas.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Tillman County

via SchoolsByCounty

Efficient Rural Schools with High Success

Tillman County supports a small but successful student population of 1,292 across 8 public schools. These schools are organized into 4 districts, primarily serving the communities of Frederick, Grandfield, and Tipton.

Leading the State in Graduation Success

Tillman County achieves a standout graduation rate of 90.5%, far exceeding the Oklahoma average of 84.3%. The county spends $6,184 per student, aligning closely with state funding levels while delivering superior results.

Frederick District Serves as the Anchor

The Frederick district is the largest in the county, managing 3 schools and 810 students. Grandfield and Tipton provide additional rural options, and the county maintains a traditional public school system with no charter schools.

Intimate Learning in a Rural Setting

With an average school size of only 162 students, Tillman County offers some of the most personalized learning environments in Oklahoma. Frederick ES is the largest campus with 386 students, while many other schools offer even smaller class sizes.

Invest in a County with Top-Tier Results

Families seeking high graduation rates and small-town values should prioritize Tillman County in their home search. The exceptional performance in Frederick and surrounding districts makes this a hidden gem for educational quality.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Tillman County

via RiskByCounty

Tillman County ranks among safest nationally

Tillman County's composite risk score of 13.42 places it in the very low category, dramatically below the Oklahoma state average of 55.47. This southwestern county experiences minimal natural disaster exposure compared to most U.S. regions.

Oklahoma's safest county by far

Tillman County ranks as one of Oklahoma's lowest-risk communities, with a composite score only 24% of the state average. Only Roger Mills (23.19) rivals Tillman's exceptionally low natural disaster exposure statewide.

Dramatically safer than surrounding counties

Tillman County's 13.42 score is dramatically lower than all neighboring counties, particularly compared to Stephens County (65.94) and other surrounding communities. The county's unique geographic position creates substantial protective advantages.

Wildfire is the primary hazard

Wildfire risk (52.70) is Tillman County's most significant exposure, though still modest compared to other Oklahoma counties. Tornado risk (41.09) and hurricane risk (35.13) present secondary but manageable threats.

Standard insurance provides solid protection

Tillman County residents can rely on standard homeowners insurance coverage for most natural disaster scenarios given the county's very low overall risk. Regular property maintenance and fire prevention measures provide adequate supplemental protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Tillman County

via WeatherByCounty

Exceptional heat in the southwest corner

Tillman County is one of the warmest in the region, with an annual average temperature of 62.9°F. This is nearly ten degrees above the national median, signaling a very hot local climate.

Ranking among Oklahoma's hottest counties

At 62.9°F, the county is significantly warmer than the Oklahoma state average of 60.4°F. July brings extreme conditions with temperatures averaging 84.7°F.

Surpassing neighbors in extreme heat days

Tillman County records a staggering 102 days over 90°F annually, far exceeding the 76 days seen in nearby Stephens County. While rainfall data is limited, the heat profile is clearly the most intense in the set.

Over one hundred days of extreme heat

The county endures 102 days per year with temperatures at or above 90°F. Winter is mild by comparison, averaging 42.7°F, with virtually no significant snow recorded.

Prioritize high-capacity air conditioning

With over 100 days of extreme heat, HVAC systems must be regularly serviced and highly efficient. Residents should avoid outdoor exertion during the peak of the 84.7°F July afternoons.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Tillman County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral to Alkaline Soils in Tillman

Tillman County features a soil pH of 6.96, which is nearly neutral and higher than the national median of 6.5. This puts the county well above the Oklahoma state average pH of 6.06. Such a profile is excellent for nutrient availability in many agricultural applications.

A Balanced and Clay-Rich Mix

With 36.8% sand, 33.1% silt, and 21.4% clay, the soil has a robust, well-distributed texture. The 21.4% clay content is higher than many neighboring counties, providing superior nutrient retention and soil structure. This mix supports the county's soil score of 31.1.

Resilient Texture vs Lower Organic Matter

Organic matter is 1.28%, falling below the state average of 1.72%. The available water capacity of 0.134 in/in is also slightly lower than the state average of 0.144 in/in. Despite these numbers, the balanced clay content helps manage the moisture that is available.

Managing Water in Hydrologic Group D

Tillman County belongs to Hydrologic Group D, which is prone to high runoff and slow infiltration. The clay-rich composition can lead to heavy, sticky soils when wet and hard-packed conditions when dry. Careful timing of tilling and planting is required to maintain soil health.

Zone 8a: A Long Season for Heat Lovers

The warm Zone 8a climate allows for an exceptionally long growing season for crops like peppers, tomatoes, and melons. The near-neutral pH means most plants can easily access soil minerals without much adjustment. Adding compost will help improve the water capacity and organic matter for peak production.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Tillman County

via LawnByCounty

Oklahoma's Most Difficult Lawn Environment

Tillman County presents extreme challenges, with a lawn difficulty score of just 26.0. This is the lowest in the region and far below the state average of 46.1. The combination of intense heat and severe drought makes traditional lawn care nearly impossible without heavy intervention.

Extreme Heat and Growing Energy

Local lawns must endure a staggering 102 days of extreme heat above 90°F, far exceeding the state average of 76. The high energy of 5,683 growing degree days means that if a lawn survives the heat, it will grow rapidly and require frequent care. Unfortunately, precipitation data is limited, adding to the uncertainty of natural growth.

Solid Soil Foundation in Tillman

The soil pH is 6.96, which sits at the top of the ideal range for most turfgrasses. The soil is more clay-heavy than neighboring counties at 21.4%, with 36.8% sand to balance it out. This composition helps retain whatever moisture is available, though it can become very hard during the frequent heat waves.

Critical Drought Conditions are Universal

100% of Tillman County is currently under severe drought conditions, and lawns have spent 34 weeks in drought over the last year. This is one of the most water-stressed areas in the state for homeowners. Drought-stricken lawns should not be fertilized, as the salt in fertilizers can further dehydrate the grass.

Tough Grasses for a Tough Climate

Only the hardiest warm-season grasses like Bermuda should be considered for this Zone 8a environment. Your planting window begins after April 3, but you must establish the lawn well before the 102 days of summer heat. Given the first frost is November 10, you have a long time to prepare for winter dormancy.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tillman County's county score?
Tillman County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 43.6 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 Tillman County rank among counties in Oklahoma?
Tillman County ranks #31 among all counties in Oklahoma 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 Tillman County, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Tillman County is $477, with an effective tax rate of 0.66%. This earns Tillman County a tax score of 67.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Tillman County?
The median household income in Tillman County, Oklahoma is $47,445 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Tillman County earns an income score of 10.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Tillman County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Tillman County scores 43.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #31 in Oklahoma. The best way to evaluate Tillman 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 Tillman County with other counties side by side.

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