countyscore
41.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 62.4Safety 60Schools 51.1

County Report Card

About Van Zandt County, Texas

Approaching the National Benchmark

With a composite score of 41.4, Van Zandt County performs slightly below the national median of 50.0. It offers a more balanced profile than many of its regional counterparts.

Consistent with State Performance

The county’s score of 41.4 aligns closely with the Texas state average of 41.9. This makes it a representative example of typical livability standards found across the Lone Star State.

High Incomes and Community Safety

The county shines with an Income Score of 62.4 and a Safety Score of 60.0. Median household incomes reach $68,274, providing residents with strong purchasing power in a secure environment.

Improving Healthcare and Infrastructure

Van Zandt’s Health Score of 23.9 remains a primary area for development. Residents also navigate a Tax Score of 30.7, indicating a moderate property tax burden compared to the state's top performers.

The Sweet Spot for Safety

Van Zandt is an excellent choice for families seeking a safe, middle-class lifestyle with solid earning potential. It suits those who want a classic Texas feel without the instability of higher-risk counties.

Score breakdown

Tax30.7Cost32.4Safety60Health23.9Schools51.1Income62.4Risk41.2Water38.9Weather37.5
🏛30.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠32.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼62.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡60
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤23.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓51.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡41.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧38.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤37.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨30.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱48.7
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

Rains County
Texas
48.2
Wood County
Texas
50.8
Hunt County
Texas
31.5
Smith County
Texas
29.6
Henderson County
Texas
38.8
Kaufman County
Texas
29.4
Hopkins County
Texas
45.9
Rockwall County
Texas
40.6

Deep Dives

Van Zandt County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Van Zandt County

via TaxByCounty

Van Zandt taxes below national median

Van Zandt County's effective tax rate of 1.105% sits just slightly below the national median of 1.1%, placing it nearly at the U.S. average. The median property tax of $2,204 annually is about 82% of the national median of $2,690, making it a moderate-tax county nationally.

Slightly below Texas average

Van Zandt County's 1.105% effective rate falls just below the Texas state average of 1.276%, ranking it in the lower-middle tier of Texas counties. The median tax bill of $2,204 nearly matches the state median of $2,193, making it a typical Texas county for property tax purposes.

Moderate rates for North Texas

Van Zandt County's 1.105% rate is competitive in North Texas; Collin County averages 1.09%, Kaufman County around 1.12%, and Hunt County near 1.18%. This makes Van Zandt an attractive option for those seeking moderate taxes in the region.

A $199k home costs $2,204 yearly

With a median home value of $199,500 and an effective rate of 1.105%, the typical Van Zandt County homeowner pays $2,204 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages face combined annual costs of $2,833.

Review assessments for accuracy

Van Zandt County homeowners should ensure their property assessments reflect fair market value. A formal appeal with the county appraisal district can identify inflated valuations and lower your annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Van Zandt County

via CostByCounty

Van Zandt's rents stay below national squeeze

Renters here spend 17.8% of their income on housing, slightly below the national median rent-to-income ratio and comfortably close to what experts call affordable. The median household income of $68,274 is below the national average of $74,755, but lower rents at $1,010 per month help offset that gap.

Above average among Texas counties

Van Zandt's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio ranks slightly below Texas's 18.1% state average, positioning it as a relatively affordable corner of the state. With median rent at $1,010—above the state median of $963—the county trades slightly pricier rents for stronger income levels compared to many rural Texas peers.

Competing with rural Texas affordability

Van Zandt's rents ($1,010) sit between Walker County's $986 and Wharton County's $986, while its household income of $68,274 outpaces Walker County's $49,862. The county offers a middle ground: not as cheap as Ward County but with steadier household earnings than its immediate neighbors.

Rent claims less than one-fifth of income

The typical Van Zandt renter pays $1,010 monthly while a homebuyer carries $931 in ownership costs—meaning housing consumes about 18% of the median household budget. With median home values at $199,500, the county offers modest entry points for buyers seeking to build equity.

Rural stability with reasonable housing costs

If you're considering a move, Van Zandt delivers balanced affordability: rental costs below state average and homeownership costs that don't spike like higher-priced Texas markets. The county's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio suggests sustainable housing expenses for remote workers or retirees seeking small-town living.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Van Zandt County

via IncomeByCounty

Van Zandt tracks near national median

Van Zandt County's median household income of $68,274 sits about $6,500 below the national median of $74,755, representing a modest 9% shortfall. This positions the county as closer to typical American household earning than many rural peers.

Above Texas average

Van Zandt exceeds Texas's state average median household income of $64,737 by roughly $3,500, ranking it in the upper half of the state's counties. The county's per capita income of $34,078 also surpasses the state average of $33,197, signaling relatively balanced earning distribution.

Strong performer among regional peers

Van Zandt's $68,274 median income outpaces most neighboring counties, including Val Verde ($59,673) and Webb County ($62,506). Only Waller ($76,135) and Washington ($75,085) counties significantly exceed Van Zandt's earnings profile in the broader region.

Housing costs lean favorable

Van Zandt's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio falls comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold, indicating healthy housing cost burden. With a median home value of $199,500 and median income of $68,274, households here retain purchasing power for both renting and homeownership.

Van Zandt: time to invest strategically

With incomes above state average and favorable housing ratios, Van Zandt residents have capacity to direct additional funds toward wealth-building tools like index funds, retirement accounts, and real estate equity. Consulting a financial advisor to diversify beyond homeownership can accelerate long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Van Zandt County

via CrimeByCounty

Van Zandt Boasts Exceptional National Safety Rankings

Van Zandt County features a total crime rate of only 917.5 per 100K, which is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This contributes to an elite safety score of 98.6. It is statistically one of the safest regions in the country based on 2022 data.

Top-Tier Safety Performance in Texas

The county’s safety score of 98.6 far exceeds the Texas average of 96.8. Its total crime rate is dramatically lower than the state average of 2,052.5 per 100K. Seven reporting agencies work together to maintain this high standard of public security.

Van Zandt Leads Its Regional Peers

Van Zandt’s crime rate of 917.5 per 100K is significantly lower than other rural Texas neighbors like Waller County. The county's safety score of 98.6 provides a substantial margin of security compared to most Texas jurisdictions. This reflects a remarkably low-risk environment for residents.

Incredibly Low Violent Crime Rates

Violent crime in Van Zandt is just 104.9 per 100K, nearly four times lower than the national rate of 369.8. Property crime makes up the bulk of activity at 812.6 per 100K. These numbers represent some of the lowest crime frequencies in the state.

Maintain Your Peace of Mind

Low crime rates don't mean you should ignore basic security measures for your property. Secure your perimeter and ensure your home is well-lit at night to prevent property crimes. Community awareness remains the best tool for keeping Van Zandt safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Van Zandt County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy slightly below the nation

Van Zandt County residents live to 73.8 years on average, about 0.7 years shorter than the U.S. median of 74.5 years. The good news: only 21.7% report poor or fair health, better than the national average of 18% when measured against the county's peer group.

Below Texas average, but fewer uninsured

At 73.8 years, Van Zandt's life expectancy trails Texas's 74.3-year average. However, the county's uninsured rate of 19.2% is slightly above the state's 19.8%, suggesting relatively stable insurance access compared to other Texas counties.

Lowest life expectancy in the region

Van Zandt at 73.8 years ranks below Walker County (76.6) and Washington County (76.9), making it the lowest in this peer group. The county does match similar uninsured rates to nearby Victoria (19.1%), indicating comparable economic pressures on healthcare access.

Severe primary care provider shortage

Van Zandt has only 8 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—far below the national standard of 55—forcing residents to travel significant distances for routine care. Mental health providers number 41 per 100,000, adding another access barrier for those seeking behavioral health support.

Explore coverage to close the gap

Nearly 1 in 5 Van Zandt residents lack insurance, contributing to delayed care and health complications. Start your coverage search at Healthcare.gov or contact the Van Zandt County Health Department to learn about Medicaid eligibility and marketplace options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Van Zandt County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Broad Educational Network in Van Zandt

Van Zandt County supports 10,717 students across 29 public schools and 8 different districts. The infrastructure includes 12 elementary, 8 middle, and 9 high schools, providing a complete path for local families. This network manages a significant student population spread across the county's growing communities.

High Graduation Rates Outpace National Average

The county boasts a 94.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national average of 87.0% and the state average of 91.6%. While per-pupil expenditure is $6,272—below the state average of $7,498—the county maintains a school score of 54.1. Local schools deliver strong results despite lower funding levels than national benchmarks.

Spotlight on Wills Point and Van Districts

Wills Point ISD serves as the county's largest district with 2,765 students, followed closely by Van ISD with 2,407 students. Grand Saline ISD also plays a major role, managing 5 schools for over 1,200 children. Charter school options are limited here, representing only 3.4% of the total school landscape.

Small-Town Feel with Personal Attention

With 17 schools in town settings and 12 in rural areas, the county offers a distinctly non-urban educational environment. The average school size is just 370 students, ensuring a more personalized experience than many suburban districts. The largest campus is Wills Point High School with 803 students, while many primary schools remain much smaller.

Find Your Home Near Van Zandt Schools

Families looking for high graduation rates and a close-knit community should explore the diverse housing options near Wills Point or Van. School quality remains a top driver for local home values in this East Texas region. Start your search today to find a residence that provides access to these top-performing districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Van Zandt County

via RiskByCounty

Van Zandt's Moderate Risk Level

Van Zandt County scores 58.78 on the composite risk scale, ranking as relatively low despite exceeding the Texas average of 49.00 by 10 points. This places the county slightly above the national median, indicating manageable but present disaster exposure.

Van Zandt's Rank Among Texas Counties

Van Zandt falls in the middle range of Texas counties for overall disaster risk, with its 58.78 score placing it moderately above the state average. The county's risk profile reflects typical North Texas exposure patterns.

How Van Zandt Compares Locally

Van Zandt's score of 58.78 is lower than Walker County (73.82) and Waller County (70.26) but higher than Ward County's very low 15.36. The county's moderate risk sits near the state average, reflecting its transitional position between high-risk East Texas and lower-risk West Texas.

Van Zandt's Primary Hazards

Tornadoes present the highest risk in Van Zandt County with a score of 77.77, followed by hurricane exposure at 62.75 and wildfire risk at 69.08. Earthquake risk remains relatively low at 44.56, while flooding reaches 53.63.

Securing Your Van Zandt Property

Tornado preparedness is essential—ensure your home has a safe room or basement shelter and sign up for weather alerts through local emergency management. Bundle comprehensive homeowners insurance with windstorm coverage to protect against both tornadoes and high winds, which are recurring threats in this North Texas county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Van Zandt County

via WeatherByCounty

A humid and warm subtropical climate

Van Zandt County averages 65.2°F annually, which is roughly 12 degrees warmer than the national median. Its 44.6 inches of rainfall ensures a much wetter environment than the average American county.

Mirroring the typical Texas climate

The county's average temperature of 65.2°F is nearly identical to the Texas state average of 65.5°F. However, it is significantly wetter than the state median, receiving 44.6 inches of rain compared to the state's 31.9 inches.

Moderate heat compared to southern neighbors

With 86 days of extreme heat, Van Zandt is slightly more temperate than counties further south in the state. Its 44.6 inches of rainfall is consistent with its neighbors in the humid East Texas region.

Steamy summers and cool winters

July temperatures average 83.9°F, and the county faces 86 days of temperatures above 90°F. Winters are relatively cool but mild, with a December through February average of 47.2°F.

Ready for rain and summer sun

Infrastructure should be prepared for 44.6 inches of annual rain, focusing on proper foundation drainage and roof maintenance. Residents will also need robust cooling for the nearly three months of extreme heat every year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Van Zandt County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Versatile Soils

Soil in Van Zandt County leans acidic with a pH of 6.00, placing it below the Texas average of 7.09. This measurement is closer to the national median of 6.5, creating a versatile environment for many garden favorites.

Sandy Ground for High Aeration

The profile is dominated by sand at 55.5%, while clay accounts for just 13.8%. This high sand percentage ensures the soil remains easy to work and provides excellent aeration for root systems.

Efficient Water Storage Potential

The organic matter content sits at 1.37%, slightly below the state average of 1.66%. Despite this, the available water capacity is a solid 0.131 in/in, which is nearly identical to the Texas state benchmark of 0.133 in/in.

Slow Subsurface Water Movement

Falling under Hydrologic Group D, the county's soil typically exhibits slow water infiltration deeper in the profile. Gardeners should consider raised beds to bypass any potential drainage issues during heavy rainfall.

Endless Growth in Zone 8b

Van Zandt County's 8b hardiness zone and acidic pH are tailor-made for growing world-class blueberries and sweet potatoes. Your soil score of 30.6 is better than the state average, so start your planting season with confidence.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Van Zandt County

via LawnByCounty

Van Zandt Nears National Norms

Van Zandt County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 48.7, nearly reaching the national median of 50.0. This makes it one of the easiest places in Texas to grow a lawn, far outperforming the state average of 31.7. In this Zone 8b climate, homeowners enjoy a much more forgiving environment than their neighbors to the west.

Generous Rainfall Supports Growth

The county receives 44.6 inches of annual precipitation, placing it right in the sweet spot of the 30-50 inch ideal range. While you face 86 extreme heat days, this is lower than the state average of 105. This moisture-rich climate supports a vigorous growing season with 6,204 growing degree days, reducing the need for constant supplemental irrigation.

Perfectly Balanced Acidic Soil

The soil pH in Van Zandt is a solid 6.00, hitting the exact bottom edge of the ideal range for grass growth. The high sand content of 55.5% ensures excellent aeration, though it may require organic amendments to help hold onto water. While specific drainage data is limited, the high sand percentage generally prevents the waterlogged roots common in clay-heavy regions.

Managing Sudden Dry Spells

Despite 11 weeks of drought over the past year, 75.6% of the county currently faces severe drought conditions. While the annual rainfall is high, these intense dry periods can stress your turf quickly. Utilizing mulch and maintaining a taller grass height will help protect the soil surface and preserve moisture during these fluctuations.

Optimal Conditions for Southern Grasses

Bermuda and Zoysia thrive in this 8b hardiness zone, especially with the reliable spring rains. Plan your seeding or sodding projects after the last frost on March 11 to avoid late-season cold snaps. With a first frost arriving around November 21, you have a long window to establish a lush, healthy lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Van Zandt County's county score?
Van Zandt County, Texas has a composite county score of 41.4 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 Van Zandt County rank among counties in Texas?
Van Zandt County ranks #127 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 Van Zandt County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Van Zandt County is $2,204, with an effective tax rate of 1.10%. This earns Van Zandt County a tax score of 30.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Van Zandt County?
The median household income in Van Zandt County, Texas is $68,274 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Van Zandt County earns an income score of 62.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Van Zandt County, Texas a good place to live?
Van Zandt County scores 41.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #127 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Van Zandt 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 Van Zandt 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.