countyscore
27
County Score
Income & Jobs 57.2Schools 53.6Water Quality 48.3

County Report Card

About Wharton County, Texas

Wharton County Trails the National Median

Wharton County earns a composite score of 26.9, placing it significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a need for improvement across several quality-of-life indicators compared to the average U.S. county.

Falling Below the Texas Average

With a score of 26.9, Wharton County sits well below the Texas state average of 41.9. It ranks among the lower-performing counties in the state for overall livability metrics.

Solid Incomes and School Performance

The county shows strength in household earnings, with a median income of $66,100 and an income score of 57.2. Educational quality also stands out as a relative asset, scoring 53.6 on the school index.

Safety and Health Concerns

Safety remains a critical area for improvement with a very low score of 7.9. Residents also face a heavy tax burden, as indicated by a tax score of only 12.6 and an effective tax rate of 1.505%.

Potential for Locally Employed Families

This county suits families who benefit from its respectable $66,100 median income and decent schools. However, prospective residents must weigh these benefits against significant safety and tax concerns.

2040608010012.635.87.918.553.657.21748.317.5Tax12.6Cost35.8Safety7.9Health18.5Schools53.6Income57.2Risk17Water48.3Weather17.527/100
This county
National avg
6 below average

Wharton County DNA

Foverall

How Wharton County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Wharton County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Safety (7.9/100), though Income (57.2/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
12.6-39.4
Cost
35.8-12.200000000000003
Safety
7.9-47.1
Health
18.5-31.5
Schools
53.6
Income
57.2
Risk
17-30
Water
48.3-9.700000000000003
Weather
17.5-38.5
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Many homeowners in Wharton County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$182,700

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$986/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$182,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$39,440/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $66,100/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

28.8

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Deep Dives

Wharton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Wharton County

via TaxByCounty

Wharton's taxes exceed national norms

Wharton County's effective tax rate of 1.505% ranks in the top 30% of U.S. counties, surpassing the national median of 1.1% by a significant margin. The median property tax of $2,749 slightly exceeds the national median of $2,690, despite home values that are 35% lower than the national average.

Above average for Texas

Wharton's 1.505% effective rate ranks in the upper third of Texas counties, exceeding the state average of 1.276% by a notable margin. The median tax of $2,749 is 25% above the state median of $2,193, making Wharton a heavier-taxed county statewide.

Second-highest rate in this Texas cluster

Only Webb County (1.851%) charges more than Wharton's 1.505% rate; Victoria (1.488%) and Wheeler (1.446%) fall just short. Walker, Washington, and Ward counties all provide relief from Wharton's burden.

A $182,700 home means $2,749 yearly

The median Wharton County homeowner pays approximately $2,749 in annual property taxes on a home valued at $182,700. With a mortgage, expect about $3,445 withheld annually; without one, roughly $2,333.

Assessment appeals can offset high rates

With above-average tax rates, Wharton homeowners should verify their assessments against recent comparable sales in their area. If your home's appraised value seems inflated, filing an appeal with the appraisal district can reduce your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wharton County

via CostByCounty

Wharton delivers solid affordability for renters

Wharton County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.9% sits just above the state average of 18.1% and comfortably below national affordability thresholds. With median rent at $986 and household income of $66,100—slightly below national average—renters here allocate reasonable housing shares to their budgets.

Reliable affordability in coastal Texas

Wharton ranks near the state average with a 17.9% rent-to-income ratio, positioning it as one of coastal Texas's more affordable counties. The $986 rent aligns with state medians while incomes of $66,100 support manageable affordability.

Affordable edge in rural competition

Wharton's $986 rent ties with Walker County as the region's cheapest, while its $66,100 income exceeds Walker County but trails most other peers. The county offers strong value: rural rents with better household earnings than many agricultural neighbors.

Balanced affordability across housing types

Wharton renters pay $986 monthly (17.9% of income) while homeowners spend $892—making ownership slightly cheaper and more accessible than renting. Median home values of $182,700 sit below the regional average, offering reasonable entry points for buyers.

Solid choice for coastal Texas affordability

Wharton appeals to families seeking coastal proximity without Gulf resort pricing: the 17.9% rent-to-income ratio delivers genuine affordability near the Texas coast. With ownership costs lower than rent and home values around $182,700, the county balances accessibility across both tenure types.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wharton County

via IncomeByCounty

Wharton earns below the national average

Wharton County's median household income of $66,100 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by about $8,600. This places Wharton in the lower-middle income tier nationally, though many rural and mid-sized Texas counties face similar headwinds.

Above the Texas state median

At $66,100, Wharton's median household income outpaces Texas's state average of $64,737 by roughly $1,400. This modest advantage reflects Wharton's position as a solid middle-income county within the state's diverse economic landscape.

Competitive with nearby rural counties

Wharton's $66,100 income sits between Wheeler County ($67,964) to the north and Wichita County ($62,168) to the west. Among its peer group of Gulf Coast and South Plains counties, Wharton holds a moderate position in earning power.

Housing costs are manageable here

Wharton's rent-to-income ratio of 17.9% is well below the 30% affordability threshold, meaning most households spend less than one-fifth of earnings on rent. With a median home value of $182,700, homeownership remains attainable for many residents earning the county median.

Build wealth with smart planning

Wharton's affordable housing market creates space for residents to invest in retirement accounts, education funds, and long-term savings. Even modest income growth paired with consistent investment discipline can compound significantly over time in this moderate cost-of-living environment.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wharton County

via CrimeByCounty

Wharton County Safety vs. National Norms

Wharton County reports a total crime rate of 2989.4 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 95.3 out of 100.

Wharton's Standing Among Texas Counties

The county's safety score of 95.3 sits below the Texas state average of 96.8. This indicates that Wharton faces more public safety challenges than many of its peers across the state.

Local Comparison to State Averages

Wharton's total crime rate is significantly higher than the Texas average of 2,052.5 per 100,000. Seven reporting agencies work to manage these incidents within the county's borders.

Violent and Property Crime Analysis

Property crimes make up the bulk of local incidents at 2528.0 per 100,000, while the violent crime rate stands at 461.4. Residents are more likely to experience theft or burglary than physical offenses.

Securing Your Wharton County Property

While Wharton has higher rates than some neighbors, proactive security remains an effective deterrent. Installing motion-sensor lighting and upgrading door locks can significantly reduce your risk of property crime.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Wharton County

via SchoolsByCounty

Educational Access Across Wharton County

Wharton County supports 18 public schools serving 7,847 students across 5 different districts. The county's school directory includes 8 elementary, 5 middle, and 5 high schools. This distributed network ensures that students in both towns and rural areas have local access to all grade levels.

Strong Outcomes for Wharton Students

The county's 93.5% graduation rate is a highlight, sitting well above the national benchmark of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $6,616 is below the state average of $7,498, the county's school score of 54.5 remains competitive. Local schools are efficiently turning modest investment into strong student success metrics.

El Campo and Wharton Districts Lead

El Campo ISD is the largest district in the county, serving 3,349 students, followed by Wharton ISD with 1,844 students. Boling ISD also serves a significant cohort of 1,146 students. All 18 schools are traditional public facilities, as there are currently no charter schools operating in the county.

A Rural Learning Environment

Eleven of the county's schools are in rural settings, with the remaining 7 located in towns. The average school size is 436 students, though El Campo High School stands out as the largest campus with 1,062 students. This mix provides a quiet, rural feel for younger students while offering larger social circles in high school.

Discover Homes Near Wharton’s Top Districts

Wharton County's high graduation rates make it an attractive option for families seeking a stable rural or small-town lifestyle. Properties near El Campo or Wharton offer the benefit of established school districts with proven academic results. Explore current real estate listings to find a home that meets your family's needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wharton County

via RiskByCounty

Wharton's risk sits well above average

With a composite risk score of 83.02, Wharton County faces significantly higher natural disaster risk than the typical U.S. county. This "Relatively Moderate" rating reflects exposure to multiple hazard types that demand preparation and insurance planning.

A higher-risk Texas county

Wharton ranks among the riskier counties in Texas, with a score of 83.02 compared to the state average of 49.00. This makes it one of the counties where residents face elevated exposure across several disaster categories.

Riskier than most Coastal Bend peers

Wharton's risk profile exceeds that of neighboring Willacy County (77.48) and Wilson County (75.54), placing it in a higher-risk tier for the region. Its hurricane exposure particularly outpaces nearby counties, while flood risk remains a shared concern across the coastal area.

Hurricanes and tornadoes pose top threats

Wharton's hurricane risk score of 94.83 is exceptionally high—among the state's most exposed counties—while tornado risk of 72.42 adds a secondary severe weather threat. Flood risk of 69.82 rounds out a trio of serious hazards that shape the county's disaster preparedness needs.

Prioritize wind and flood coverage now

Given Wharton's extreme hurricane exposure, comprehensive homeowners insurance with adequate wind damage coverage is essential. If you live in a flood-prone area, flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program should be a priority—standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Wharton County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Compliance Earns a D Grade

Wharton County records 5 health violations over the last five years, resulting in a D grade for its drinking water systems. While the violation rate of 18.6 per 100,000 residents is significantly lower than the Texas average of 581.9, the presence of health-based infractions signals underlying system risks. Local utilities continue to work toward full alignment with Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

Watershed Assessments Currently Pending for Local Streams

Federal records indicate that water bodies within Wharton County are not yet covered in the latest federal §303(d) assessment cycle. Without active ATTAINS data, the specific share of impaired water bodies remains unknown at the federal level. This gap highlights a need for future inclusion in state-led watershed health reporting.

Extensive Monitoring Tracks Organics and Pesticides

Scientists maintain a steady watch over Wharton County using 9 active monitoring sites. These locations generated 4,138 measurements over the last five years, focusing heavily on organics, pesticides, and inorganic characteristics. This data provides a crucial baseline for identifying chemical runoff before it impacts broader ecosystems.

Colorado River Flows Well Below Historical Means

The Colorado River at Wharton currently flows at 676 cubic feet per second, representing just 26% of its long-term mean. This significantly reduced discharge reflects dry conditions across the 42,003 square mile drainage area. Low flow levels can increase the concentration of pollutants and stress local aquatic habitats.

Watch Flow Levels and Chemical Runoff

With the Colorado River flowing at roughly a quarter of its typical volume, residents should be aware that lower water levels can concentrate existing contaminants. Given the D compliance grade and the focus on pesticide monitoring, using certified water filters can provide an extra layer of protection. Stay informed on local drought stages as they directly impact the source water quality.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wharton County

via WeatherByCounty

Subtropical Warmth and High Rainfall

Wharton County averages 70.3°F annually, nearly 15 degrees warmer than the national median. With 48.3 inches of rain, it is one of the wettest regions in the country.

Exceeding State Rainfall Norms

The county is warmer and wetter than the state average, significantly exceeding the 65.5°F and 31.9-inch Texas means. It receives over 16 inches more rain than the typical Texas county.

Lush Coastal Plain Climate

Wharton shares the humid characteristics of the Gulf Coast, seeing far more precipitation than the state average. This creates a much damper and greener environment than Central or West Texas.

Humid Summers and Balmy Winters

The region experiences 117 days of extreme heat annually, with July temperatures reaching 84.1°F. Winters are short and mild, averaging 55.4°F with only a trace of annual snowfall at 0.5 inches.

Moisture Control and Summer Cooling

Dehumidification is just as important as cooling for home comfort in this damp climate. With 48.3 inches of rain, residents should plan for frequent wet weather and prioritize flood-resistant landscaping.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wharton County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Acidic and Highly Productive

Wharton County features an average pH of 6.28, which is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This pH is notably lower than the Texas state average of 7.09, making it ideal for many garden crops. The county boasts an impressive soil score of 47.7, nearly double the state average.

Silty and Sandy Texture Mix

The soil composition is 46.7% sand, 30.3% silt, and 23.0% clay. This high silt percentage compared to neighboring counties improves the soil's ability to hold onto nutrients. It creates a rich, workable texture that is highly valued for agriculture.

Top-Tier Organic Matter and Water Capacity

Wharton County has a high organic matter content of 1.93%, which is nearly equal to the national average of 2.0% and well above the state average. Its available water capacity of 0.145 in/in is also superior to the state's 0.133. These numbers indicate some of the best growing potential in the region.

Managing Water on Heavy Hydrologic Soils

Despite its fertility, the soil falls into Hydrologic Group D, which means water moves through it very slowly. This can lead to saturated roots during wet seasons if proper drainage is not established. Raised beds are often the best solution for home gardeners to manage this runoff risk.

A Gardener's Paradise in Zone 9a

In Hardiness Zone 9a, the combination of high organic matter and favorable pH makes Wharton County a standout for gardening. You can successfully grow a massive variety of vegetables and fruit trees in this fertile soil. Start your garden today to take advantage of these superior conditions!

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wharton County

via LawnByCounty

Managing Turf in the Coastal Plains

Wharton County earns a lawn difficulty score of 34.0, making it slightly easier than the Texas average of 31.7 but still tougher than the national median of 50.0. Homeowners here in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a face a unique balance of high moisture and high heat. Maintaining a lush carpet requires navigating frequent temperature swings.

Ample Rainfall Meets Intense Summer Heat

With 48.3 inches of annual precipitation, the county sits at the high end of the ideal range for turf, significantly exceeding the state average of 31.9 inches. However, 117 extreme heat days and 7,590 growing degree days mean grass works overtime to survive. Rapid growth during peak season requires a disciplined mowing schedule to prevent thatch buildup.

Acidic Sands Sustain Local Lawns

The soil features a 6.28 pH level, which sits perfectly within the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for most turfgrasses. A composition of 46.7% sand and 23.0% clay provides a balanced foundation for root development. While specific drainage data is limited, the sandy texture typically assists with the heavy local rainfall.

Severe Conditions Demand Water Discipline

Despite high annual rainfall, 100.0% of the county currently experiences severe drought, with 36 weeks of drought recorded over the past year. Deep, infrequent watering is essential to encourage roots to dive deeper into the soil. Using mulch around lawn perimeters helps retain vital moisture during these prolonged dry spells.

Start Strong with Heat-Tolerant Varieties

St. Augustine and Bermuda grass thrive best in this Zone 9a climate and can handle the intense humidity. Aim to install sod or seed after the last spring frost on February 23 but well before the first fall frost on December 8. Consistent care can turn these challenging conditions into a vibrant, year-round green space.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wharton County's county score?
Wharton County, Texas has a composite county score of 27 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 Wharton County rank among counties in Texas?
Wharton County ranks #231 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 Wharton County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Wharton County is $2,749, with an effective tax rate of 1.50%. This earns Wharton County a tax score of 12.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wharton County?
The median household income in Wharton County, Texas is $66,100 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wharton County earns an income score of 57.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wharton County, Texas a good place to live?
Wharton County scores 27/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #231 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Wharton 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 Wharton 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.