countyscore
32.6
County Score
Cost of Living 72.2Schools 58.8Water Quality 29.8

County Report Card

About Willacy County, Texas

Willacy County Trails National Norms

Willacy County's composite score of 32.6 is significantly lower than the national median of 50.0. This indicates a challenging quality-of-life profile compared to much of the country.

Lagging Behind State Averages

At 32.6, Willacy County performs poorly compared to the Texas average of 41.9. It ranks in the bottom tier of Texas counties for overall socio-economic health.

High Affordability and Stable Schools

Housing affordability is the county's standout feature, earning a cost score of 72.2 with median homes at $60,800. Schools also provide a bright spot with a score of 58.8.

Economic and Tax Burdens

Residents face a tough tax environment with a score of 4.0 and a 1.915% effective rate. Economic opportunities are scarce, reflected by a very low income score of 8.0 and a $45,645 median household income.

A Choice for Ultra-Low Cost Living

This county is best for those prioritizing low housing costs and reliable local schools. Potential residents must be prepared for high property taxes and very limited local income growth.

Score breakdown

Tax4Cost72.2Safety24.2Health9.5Schools58.8Income8Risk22.5Water29.8Weather10.3
🏛4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠72.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡24.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤9.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓58.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡22.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧29.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤10.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨14.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱27.7
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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Deep Dives

Willacy County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Willacy County

via TaxByCounty

Willacy has the highest tax burden regionally

Willacy County's effective tax rate of 1.915% is the highest among the eight-county region and 51% above the national median of 1.27%, placing it solidly in the high-tax tier nationwide. Despite relatively modest median home values of $60,800, the effective rate drives up the tax burden on residents.

Steeply above Texas's statewide average

At 1.915%, Willacy's effective tax rate is 50% higher than Texas's state average of 1.276%, making it one of the most heavily taxed counties in the state. The median annual tax of $1,164 is 47% below the state average, reflecting the county's lower property values rather than a lower rate.

Heaviest tax load in the South Texas region

Willacy County's 1.915% rate is notably higher than neighboring Wilson County (1.301%) and significantly exceeds most other counties in its region. Only Wichita County (1.766%) comes close to Willacy's effective rate among the eight-county comparison.

Lower home values offset high rate

On a median-value home of $60,800, Willacy County homeowners pay approximately $1,164 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, the effective total reaches $2,340, reflecting the county's steep effective rate applied to modest property values.

High rate makes assessment review critical

Given Willacy County's elevated tax rate, verifying your property assessment is especially important to catch potential overvaluations. South Texas homeowners can request a free appraisal review through the county's chief appraiser office—a simple step that often yields tax savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Willacy County

via CostByCounty

Willacy Struggles With Housing Affordability

Willacy County renters spend 22.8% of their income on housing—the highest burden in this group and significantly above the Texas average of 18.1%. With a $45,645 median household income and $868 monthly rent, affordability here is genuinely stressed.

Texas's Most Unaffordable County Here

Willacy ranks among the least affordable counties in all of Texas, with a 22.8% rent-to-income ratio that signals severe affordability strain. Only the most economically distressed counties in the state face worse housing-cost burdens.

Lowest Incomes in the Region

Willacy's $868 monthly rent is modest by Texas standards, but the $45,645 median household income is the lowest across all comparison counties. Even modest housing costs consume nearly a quarter of household earnings here.

22.8% to Rent, Maximum Strain

Renters in Willacy spend $868 monthly from a $45,645 annual income—22.8% consumed by housing before utilities, food, or other necessities. Homeowners fare better with $454 monthly payments and $60,800 median home values, making ownership a more viable option for those with down-payment savings.

Relocation Requires Strong Job Prospects

Willacy's 22.8% rent-to-income ratio makes it one of Texas's least affordable counties—suitable only for relocators with job offers that substantially exceed the $45,645 median income. If your new position brings meaningful wage growth, the area's low home prices ($60,800 median) could offer real long-term equity building.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Willacy County

via IncomeByCounty

Willacy faces the deepest income gap

Willacy County's median household income of $45,645 is approximately $29,100 below the U.S. median of $74,755. This represents one of the most significant income disparities among Texas counties, reflecting economic hardship in the Rio Grande Valley.

Lowest income in Texas comparison

At $45,645, Willacy's median household income falls nearly $19,100 short of the Texas state average of $64,737. The county ranks among the lowest-income counties statewide, signaling persistent economic and employment challenges.

Substantially below all peer counties

Willacy's $45,645 trails every comparison county, with the nearest peer Wilbarger County earning $51,626—over $6,000 more annually. The income gap to wealthier counties like Williamson ($108,309) exceeds $62,000, highlighting stark regional disparities.

Housing strain on limited income

Willacy's rent-to-income ratio of 22.8% is the highest among all eight counties, meaning households dedicate nearly one-quarter of earnings to housing. The median home value of $60,800 is low, but even modest rents consume a disproportionate share of limited household income.

Access resources for financial stability

Willacy residents should leverage community resources including financial literacy programs, small business support, and job training initiatives. Building a robust emergency fund and seeking stable employment with benefits remain foundational steps toward long-term wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Willacy County

via CrimeByCounty

Willacy County Safety Data Overview

Willacy County has a total crime rate of 1900.8 per 100,000, which is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 97.0.

Matching the Texas State Profile

At 97.0, Willacy’s safety score is very close to the Texas state average of 96.8. This indicates a safety environment consistent with many other parts of the state.

Willacy vs. State Crime Trends

The county's crime rate of 1900.8 sits slightly below the Texas state average of 2,052.5. Seven reporting agencies provide the data used to manage local law enforcement efforts.

Analyzing Crime Categories in Willacy

The violent crime rate is 423.5 per 100,000, which is slightly higher than the national average of 369.8. However, property crime is lower than national norms at 1477.3 per 100,000.

Enhancing Your Home Security

Because violent crime rates are slightly elevated, personal and home security are important. Consider a monitored alarm system to provide an extra layer of protection for your family.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Willacy County

via HealthByCounty

Willacy faces the nation's worst health trends

At 72.8 years, Willacy County life expectancy trails the U.S. average by 6.5 years, but the real crisis is that 36.8% of adults report poor or fair health—far exceeding the national rate of 21%. This indicates severe, widespread health challenges affecting the population's daily quality of life.

Worst health outcomes in this Texas cohort

Willacy County's 72.8-year life expectancy is below Texas's average of 74.3 years, but its 36.8% poor/fair health rate is the worst among all counties examined here. The 21.6% uninsured rate also exceeds the state average, compounding access barriers.

Willacy significantly outpaced by all peers

Willacy County's 36.8% poor/fair health rate dwarfs that of all neighbors—Wharton (24.0%), Wheeler (23.6%), Wichita (20.6%), and even struggling Wilbarger (27.3%). Only Willacy and Winkler have life expectancies in the 71–72 year range, but Willacy's health perception is markedly worse.

Critical provider and coverage gaps

Willacy County has just 39 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and only 45 mental health providers per 100,000—the lowest mental health density in this group—leaving residents with minimal support for chronic disease and mental health crises. The 21.6% uninsured rate means over one-fifth lack any healthcare access.

Enrollment is urgent for your health

With the highest poor/fair health rate in the region and over one in five uninsured, Willacy County residents must prioritize enrollment—call 1-800-318-2596 or visit Healthcare.gov today. Medicaid expansion coverage and marketplace subsidies can provide immediate access to preventive care and chronic disease management.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Willacy County

via SchoolsByCounty

Balanced School Network in Willacy

Willacy County manages 13 public schools serving a total of 3,976 students across four districts. The infrastructure is well-balanced with five elementary schools, three middle schools, and five high schools. This ensures that students have dedicated facilities for every stage of their primary and secondary education.

Surpassing State Standards in Graduation

The county achieves a 91.7% graduation rate, slightly exceeding the Texas state average of 91.6% and well above the 87.0% national average. Per-pupil expenditure is $7,629, which is higher than the state average but lower than the national $13,000 benchmark. These investments result in a solid school score of 55.8.

Raymondville and Lyford Lead the Way

Raymondville ISD is the largest district with 2,018 students, followed closely by Lyford CISD with 1,396 students. San Perlita ISD serves as a smaller alternative, hosting 211 students across its three schools. The county currently offers no charter school options, focusing on its established traditional public districts.

A Mix of Town and Rural Learning

Schooling in Willacy County takes place across eight town-based and five rural campuses, with an average enrollment of 306 students. Lyford Elementary is the largest campus in the county with 625 students, while smaller schools provide more intimate settings. This blend of environments allows families to choose between centralized town schools or quieter rural facilities.

Discover Value Near High-Performing Schools

Willacy County is an excellent choice for families seeking a school system that meets and exceeds Texas state standards. With graduation rates above the national average, the local districts demonstrate a strong commitment to student success. Consider browsing homes in Raymondville or Lyford to be part of these thriving educational communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Willacy County

via RiskByCounty

Willacy County faces elevated risk overall

With a composite risk score of 77.48, Willacy County is rated "Relatively Low" but scores well above the national average for natural disaster exposure. This rating reflects concentrated hurricane and tropical weather threats that define the county's risk profile.

Above Texas average despite lower rating

Willacy's score of 77.48 exceeds the Texas state average of 49.00, placing it in the higher-risk half of Texas counties despite its "Relatively Low" classification. The county's coastal location drives elevated overall exposure.

Hurricane-dominated profile compared to peers

Willacy County (77.48) sits between Wharton County (83.02) to the north and Wilson County (75.54) to the west, with all three sharing strong hurricane exposure. Willacy's advantage lies in lower flood and tornado risk compared to those neighbors.

Hurricanes overshadow all other hazards

Willacy's hurricane risk score of 91.66 is among the highest in Texas, reflecting its Valley coastal position and exposure to tropical systems. In contrast, tornado risk of 23.22 and wildfire risk of 28.72 pose minimal threats to the county.

Hurricane insurance is non-negotiable here

Given Willacy County's extreme hurricane exposure, comprehensive homeowners insurance with robust wind coverage is essential—consider a separate windstorm policy if available. If you're in a flood-prone coastal area, flood insurance is equally critical, as hurricanes often bring surge and heavy rainfall.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Willacy County

via WeatherByCounty

Deep South Subtropical Heat

Willacy County is one of the warmest places in America, with a 73.9°F average that is nearly 20 degrees above the national median. This region stays warm almost year-round with very little cold weather.

A Thermal High in Texas

At 73.9°F, Willacy is much hotter than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. It sits in the state's southernmost tier, where tropical air masses dominate the local weather patterns.

Hot and Semi-Dry Valley

The county's 25.4 inches of annual rain is lower than the 31.9-inch state average. It is significantly drier than the eastern Gulf Coast but shares the same intense heat as its Rio Grande Valley neighbors.

Endless Summer and Balmy Winters

Summers are long, averaging 84.8°F with 114 days reaching 90°F. Winters are the warmest in the state, averaging 61.3°F with virtually no snowfall recorded at 0.2 inches.

Year-Round Cooling is Required

HVAC systems must be built for near-constant cooling, as even winter temperatures average a balmy 61.3°F. Light, breathable clothing is the only wardrobe requirement for this 114-day annual heat cycle.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Willacy County

via SoilByCounty

Sandy Coastal Soils of South Texas

Willacy County features highly alkaline soils with an average pH of 7.57, well above the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic orders are not documented here, the high alkalinity is characteristic of the Rio Grande Valley. This environment requires plants that can tolerate more basic conditions.

Dominated by Deep Sands

Sand makes up a staggering 65.0% of the soil profile, with only 15.6% silt and 19.4% clay. This high sand content means the soil is exceptionally easy to work but struggles to hold onto nutrients. It is a stark contrast to the heavier clay soils found in central parts of the state.

Low Retention in a Warm Climate

Organic matter is low at 1.23%, falling below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is also quite low at 0.099 in/in, compared to the state average of 0.133 in/in. This means irrigation is essential for any consistent growing success in the county.

Fast Infiltration and High Permeability

The soil belongs to Hydrologic Group A, which indicates high infiltration rates and low runoff potential. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, Group A soils are typically the most permeable, letting water move through quickly. This is ideal for avoiding flooding but challenging for moisture-loving plants.

Subtropical Gardening in Zone 10a

Willacy is in Zone 10a, allowing for a year-round growing season that includes citrus and tropical fruits. The soil's low water capacity and high pH mean you should focus on drought-tolerant, alkaline-loving species. Adding organic mulch will be your best strategy to keep your sandy garden productive.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Willacy County

via LawnByCounty

Tropical Heat in the Rio Grande Valley

Willacy County presents a significant challenge with a lawn difficulty score of 27.7, well below the national 50.0 average. As a USDA Zone 10a region, the environment is characterized by relentless heat and a near-constant growing season. Maintaining turf here requires specialized knowledge of tropical climate stressors.

Extreme Growing Degrees and Scant Rain

The county endures 114 extreme heat days and an incredible 8,806 growing degree days, far surpassing state norms. Precipitation is sparse at 25.4 inches, meaning your lawn faces a massive moisture deficit compared to its needs. Such high heat means grass grows fast but requires constant hydration to avoid wilting.

Sandy Terrain with High Alkalinity

The soil is heavily sandy at 65.0%, which facilitates fast drainage but provides little natural water retention. A pH level of 7.57 is notably alkaline, which can lock out essential nutrients like iron for many common grasses. Regular applications of chelated iron and organic matter are often necessary to keep the lawn green.

Vigilance During Abnormally Dry Periods

While 26.5% of the county faces severe drought, the entire area is currently classified as abnormally dry. Over the last year, the region suffered through 20 weeks of drought conditions. With such high sand content, your lawn will show signs of stress much faster than in other counties, requiring immediate attention.

Planting for a Permanent Summer

Zone 10a is perfect for Seashore Paspalum or Bermuda, which can handle both the salt air and the 114 days of extreme heat. You have a massive planting window starting as early as January 21 and extending until late December. Use this long season to establish a deep root system that can withstand the intense 8,806 growing degree days.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Willacy County's county score?
Willacy County, Texas has a composite county score of 32.6 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 Willacy County rank among counties in Texas?
Willacy County ranks #197 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 Willacy County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Willacy County is $1,164, with an effective tax rate of 1.91%. This earns Willacy County a tax score of 4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Willacy County?
The median household income in Willacy County, Texas is $45,645 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Willacy County earns an income score of 8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Willacy County, Texas a good place to live?
Willacy County scores 32.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #197 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Willacy 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 Willacy 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.