countyscore
25.6
County Score
Cost of Living 47.9Schools 36.5Weather & Climate 34.2

County Report Card

About Uvalde County, Texas

Lower Scores Signal Livability Challenges

Uvalde County earns a composite score of 25.6, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. The county faces significant headwinds across most measured dimensions compared to national peers.

Trailing the Texas State Average

At 25.6, the county’s score is significantly lower than the Texas average of 41.9. It struggles to provide the level of service and safety found in many other parts of the state.

Moderate Costs and Stable Schools

The county’s strongest point is its cost score of 47.9, providing a median home value of $144,400. A school score of 36.5 also provides a baseline for local education that outperforms its health and safety scores.

Safety, Health, and High Taxes

Critical challenges include a health score of 9.1 and a safety score of 14.4. Furthermore, the effective tax rate of 1.565% gives the county a very low tax score of 10.2, the lowest in this group.

A Budget Choice for the Resilient

Uvalde County best suits those who prioritize low-cost real estate and have external options for healthcare. Its low cost of entry is offset by higher tax burdens and limited community services.

Score breakdown

Tax10.2Cost47.9Safety14.4Health9.1Schools36.5Income32.5Risk30Water30.5Weather34.2
🏛10.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠47.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼32.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡14.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤9.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓36.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡30
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧30.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤34.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱25.2
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

Real County
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33.6
Zavala County
Texas
43.8
Edwards County
Texas
40
Bandera County
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Medina County
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Kinney County
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Frio County
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Deep Dives

Uvalde County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Uvalde County

via TaxByCounty

Uvalde's rate exceeds national average

Uvalde County's effective tax rate of 1.565% significantly exceeds the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the top 10% of U.S. counties for tax burden. The median property tax of $2,260 annually is about 84% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting a steeper-than-average rate on modest home values.

Among Texas's higher-tax counties

Uvalde County ranks in the top 5% of Texas counties by effective tax rate at 1.565%, well above the state average of 1.276%. The median tax bill of $2,260 is slightly above the state median of $2,193, making Uvalde one of Texas's more tax-heavy counties.

Highest rate in South Texas region

Uvalde County's 1.565% rate stands significantly higher than nearby South Texas counties; Medina County averages 1.32%, Kinney County around 1.25%, and Zavala County near 1.29%. Uvalde's rate makes it the priciest option in its immediate region.

A $144k home costs $2,260 yearly

With a median home value of $144,400 and an effective rate of 1.565%, the typical Uvalde County homeowner pays $2,260 in annual property taxes. Those with mortgages see combined annual costs of $3,632.

Challenge inflated assessments today

Uvalde County homeowners should carefully review their assessments, as even modest overvaluations add up quickly at this county's higher tax rate. Filing a formal appeal with the appraisal district can identify and reduce overassessments at no cost.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Uvalde County

via CostByCounty

Uvalde County balances affordability well

Uvalde County's 20.0% rent-to-income ratio aligns precisely with the national average and sits 1.9 percentage points above Texas's state average. With median household income of $57,849 and rent of $966, the county offers fair affordability for renters on modest South Texas wages.

Moderate affordability across Texas

Uvalde County's 20.0% rent-to-income ratio places it in Texas's middle tier, with median rent running just 3% below the state average despite below-average local income. The county achieves reasonable affordability through low housing costs relative to its income level.

Affordable South Texas option

Uvalde's $966 rent slightly undercuts Tom Green ($1,125) and sits between rural neighbors Trinity ($823) and Val Verde ($956). Its $144,400 median home value similarly positions it in the affordable-to-moderate tier, below Tom Green but above Upton.

South Texas housing economics

Uvalde renters pay $966 monthly while homeowners carry $741—both consuming roughly one-fifth of the county's $57,849 median income. This balance reflects South Texas's characteristic of lower costs aligned with modest regional earnings.

Uvalde suits practical relocators

Uvalde County offers straightforward housing affordability in a South Texas setting, neither the cheapest nor most expensive option among these eight. If you're relocating to this region, Uvalde delivers sustainable housing economics for anyone earning close to or above the $57,849 county median.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Uvalde County

via IncomeByCounty

Uvalde significantly below national income

Uvalde County's median household income of $57,849 falls 23% below the national median of $74,755. The county's economy relies heavily on agriculture, ranching, and seasonal employment, limiting consistent high-wage job opportunities.

Below Texas state average earnings

Uvalde County's $57,849 median income trails Texas's state average of $64,737, placing it in the lower-middle tier of the state's 254 counties. The county faces economic headwinds comparable to other rural Texas regions.

Middle earnings for West Texas

Uvalde County's $57,849 sits between Upton County ($52,321) and Tom Green County ($66,254) in this West Texas comparison. The county's agricultural foundation provides moderate earnings relative to more isolated energy-dependent neighbors.

Housing costs manageable for residents

Uvalde County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.0% sits comfortably below the affordability threshold, indicating healthy housing cost balance. A median home value of $144,400 remains accessible for households earning the county median of $57,849.

Build wealth through property ownership

Uvalde County residents benefit from affordable housing that creates pathways to homeownership and equity building. Local families should prioritize purchasing property while using remaining income to fund emergency savings and retirement contributions for long-term financial growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Uvalde County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime Rates Near National Average

Uvalde County has a total crime rate of 2436.2 per 100K, slightly exceeding the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 96.2, which is lower than many neighboring counties.

Trailing the Texas Safety Average

The county's safety score of 96.2 falls below the Texas state average of 96.8. Additionally, its total crime rate is higher than the state average of 2052.5 per 100K, indicating higher local activity.

Higher Crime Density Than Regional Peers

Uvalde County sees significantly more crime than counties like Travis or Trinity. Its total crime rate is more than double the rates found in several of its neighboring Texas counties.

Violent Crime Rate Concerns

The violent crime rate here is 559.7 per 100K, which is much higher than the national average of 369.8. Property crime also stays high at 1876.5, though it remains slightly below the national property crime average.

Taking Proactive Steps for Personal Safety

With violent crime rates above state and national averages, personal and home security are paramount. Investing in comprehensive home security systems and staying aware of surroundings are critical for local residents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Uvalde County

via HealthByCounty

Uvalde County health gaps mirror national trends

Uvalde County's 72.1-year life expectancy falls 2 years short of the U.S. average of 74.1 years, and its 27.2% poor/fair health rate nearly matches Upton County's as the highest in this group. These metrics reflect a South Texas community struggling with significant health disparities.

Well below Texas average on life expectancy

Uvalde County's 72.1-year life expectancy lags the Texas state average of 74.3 years by 2.2 years, ranking it among the state's lowest-performing counties. Its 22.9% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 19.8%, indicating both coverage and access barriers drive health challenges.

Uvalde ties Trinity as lowest life expectancy

Uvalde County and Trinity County both report 72.1-year life expectancy, the lowest in this eight-county group and reflecting rural South Texas health crises. Uvalde's 32 primary care providers per 100K residents modestly exceed Trinity's 15 per 100K, but both fall far below state adequacy.

High uninsured rate, sparse provider network

Uvalde County's 22.9% uninsured rate—among the highest in this group—leaves nearly one in four residents without insurance coverage. With 32 primary care providers and 84 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, the county struggles to meet healthcare demand across both physical and behavioral health.

Coverage matters for Uvalde residents

With nearly one in four Uvalde County residents uninsured, securing coverage is critical to accessing care and preventing health crises. Visit healthcare.gov or connect with a local community health center to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, or subsidized care options available to you.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Uvalde County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Growing Hub for South Texas Students

Uvalde County serves 5,000 students across 14 public schools and four districts. The network includes four elementary, three middle, and four high schools. This infrastructure supports a diverse student population in both town and rural settings.

Navigating Challenges with Consistent Funding

The county's graduation rate is 85.0%, slightly below the national average of 87.0%. Per-pupil spending of $7,373 is in line with Texas state averages, contributing to a school score of 51.7. These figures reflect a system that is working to improve outcomes through steady investment.

Uvalde CISD and Specialized Options

Uvalde CISD is the primary educator, managing nine schools and 4,071 students. The Uvalde Dual Language Academy serves 630 students as a notable charter option for families. Smaller districts like Knippa ISD and Sabinal ISD provide additional localized school choices.

A Balance of Town and Country

The county features eight schools in town settings and six in rural areas, offering a varied lifestyle. Uvalde High School is the largest campus with 1,129 students, while the county average is 385. This mix allows families to choose between a central town experience or a quieter rural school.

Settle Near South Texas' Regional Hub

Uvalde County offers unique educational programs, including dual-language charters and traditional districts. Choosing a home near Uvalde CISD or Knippa ISD can provide your family with access to dedicated local educators. Explore available real estate to find your place in this historic county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Uvalde County

via RiskByCounty

Uvalde County Faces Moderate Risk

Uvalde County scores 70.04 on the composite risk index, placing it above the national average and indicating substantial multi-hazard exposure. The relatively low risk rating reflects that threats are present but manageable with proper preparation and insurance planning.

Above-Average Risk in Texas

At 70.04, Uvalde County significantly exceeds Texas's state average of 49.00, ranking among the state's riskier counties for disaster exposure. This elevation is driven primarily by exceptional flood risk (82.32) and substantial wildfire (73.22) and hurricane exposure (62.41).

Riskier Than West Texas Neighbors

Uvalde County's 70.04 score substantially exceeds neighboring Upton County (7.67) and approaches regional averages, reflecting its position in flood-prone Hill Country. The county faces elevated water and wildfire threats that distinguish it from the drier West Texas interior.

Flooding Is Your Greatest Threat

Flood risk (82.32) dominates Uvalde County's hazard profile, driven by the county's location in Hill Country terrain prone to flash flooding from heavy rainfall. Wildfire (73.22) and hurricane exposure (62.41) add secondary threats, with wildfire seasons extending through late fall in this region.

Flood Insurance Is Non-Negotiable

Flood insurance through the NFIP or private carriers is essential in Uvalde County—standard homeowners policies explicitly exclude flood damage. Assess your property's flood risk zone through FEMA maps, maintain clear drainage around your foundation, and prepare a flood emergency kit with supplies and critical documents stored in waterproof containers.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Uvalde County

via WeatherByCounty

A dry climate in South Texas

Uvalde County receives 24.3 inches of annual precipitation, which is lower than many parts of the country. While specific local temperature averages are limited in this dataset, the region typically faces a hot, semi-arid environment.

Lower rainfall than the Texas average

The county's 24.3 inches of annual rain falls short of the Texas state average of 31.9 inches. This creates a landscape that is notably drier than the coastal or eastern regions of the state.

Transitional climate between hills and brush

Uvalde sits in a transitional zone where the Hill Country meets the South Texas Brush Country. Its 24.3 inches of rain is more than the desert counties to the west but less than the humid prairies to the east.

Dry winters and rare snow

Snow is a rare event here, with the county averaging only 0.1 inches of snowfall per year. While seasonal temperature data is limited, the lack of snow suggests a winter season that remains predominantly above freezing.

Prepare for a semi-arid landscape

Residents should plan for dry conditions by utilizing drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation. Even with limited local temperature data, the South Texas location necessitates reliable cooling systems for long summer months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Uvalde County

via SoilByCounty

Young, Alkaline Inceptisols

Uvalde County features alkaline soil with a pH of 7.50, which is higher than both the Texas average of 7.09 and the national median of 6.5. These Inceptisols are relatively young soils that offer a mineral-rich foundation for agriculture.

The Ideal Loam Texture

The county is blessed with a dominant loam texture, created by a balanced mix of 33.4% sand and 30.6% clay. This specific composition is highly valued for being easy to till while still retaining enough moisture for crops.

Superior Organic Matter Levels

Uvalde County boasts a high organic matter content of 2.46%, significantly surpassing the state average of 1.66% and the national average of 2.0%. This richness contributes to a healthy soil score of 33.6.

Well Drained and Productive

The soils are classified as well-drained and belong to Hydrologic Group B. This combination allows for moderate infiltration rates, making the land resilient against both drought and minor flooding.

Grow Boldly in Zone 9a

The combination of loamy soil and the 9a hardiness zone makes Uvalde County a premier spot for growing citrus, pecans, and various vegetables. Your soil is among the most fertile in the state, so get growing today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Uvalde County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Conditions for Uvalde Lawns

Uvalde County scores 25.2 on the lawn difficulty scale, indicating a tougher environment than the state average of 31.7. Growing a lawn here in Zone 9a requires careful management of limited water resources and alkaline soil.

Dry Climate with Limited Rainfall

With only 24.3 inches of annual precipitation, Uvalde falls short of the 30-50 inch range required for easy lawn maintenance. While temperature and heat day data are limited for this specific record, the low rainfall suggests a high reliance on irrigation.

Well-Drained Alkaline Loam Soils

The soil is a loam texture with a pH of 7.50, which is more alkaline than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. This 30.6% clay and 33.4% sand mix is classified as well-drained, providing a good foundation if the pH is corrected with acidifying fertilizers.

Persistent Drought and Severe Water Stress

Uvalde has been in drought for all 53 weeks of the past year, with over 41% of the county currently in severe drought or worse. Strict water conservation and the use of drought-tolerant species are mandatory for anyone hoping to maintain green space here.

Selecting Drought-Hardy Varieties

St. Augustine and Bermuda are popular choices that can handle the loamy, alkaline soil if watered deeply and infrequently. While frost dates are missing from this data, local growers should wait for consistent spring warmth before establishing new turf.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Uvalde County's county score?
Uvalde County, Texas has a composite county score of 25.6 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 Uvalde County rank among counties in Texas?
Uvalde County ranks #238 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 Uvalde County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Uvalde County is $2,260, with an effective tax rate of 1.57%. This earns Uvalde County a tax score of 10.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Uvalde County?
The median household income in Uvalde County, Texas is $57,849 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Uvalde County earns an income score of 32.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Uvalde County, Texas a good place to live?
Uvalde County scores 25.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #238 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Uvalde 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 Uvalde 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.