countyscore
46.2
County Score
Schools 70.8Disaster Risk 63.7Safety 57.6

County Report Card

About Young County, Texas

Steady Performance Near the National Median

Young County records a composite score of 46.2, placing it slightly below the national median of 50.0. It maintains a stable quality of life while remaining competitive in the region.

Exceeding the Average Texas Livability Score

With a 46.2 score, Young County outperforms the Texas state average of 41.9. It provides a more reliable living experience than many of the state’s other rural districts.

Exceptional Schools and Low Environmental Risk

Local education is a major asset, earning a high School Score of 70.8. The county also provides a secure environment with a strong Risk Score of 63.7.

Bridging the Health and Tax Gap

Healthcare access is the biggest hurdle here, with a score of only 15.0. Additionally, the effective tax rate of 1.214% results in a lower Tax Score of 25.0 compared to neighbors.

A Secure Choice for School-Aged Families

This county is an excellent choice for families prioritizing safety and educational quality. It offers a stable, low-risk environment for those who have secured external healthcare options.

Score breakdown

Tax25Cost52Safety57.6Health15Schools70.8Income50.1Risk63.7Water48.4Weather37.8
🏛25
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠52
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼50.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡57.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤15
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓70.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡63.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧48.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤37.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨30.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱37.3
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

Young County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Young County

via TaxByCounty

Young County taxes align closely with national average

Young County's effective rate of 1.214% sits just 5% below the national median of 1.276%, placing it squarely in the middle tier nationally. The county's tax burden mirrors the typical U.S. experience.

Slightly below Texas's statewide average

Young County's 1.214% effective rate edges just under Texas's 1.276% average. The median tax of $2,006 runs $187 below the state median of $2,193.

Young taxes higher than Yoakum, lower than Zapata

At 1.214%, Young County sits between Yoakum (0.981%) and Zapata (1.027%) in the regional ranking. The county's $2,006 median tax reflects a moderate position among West Texas neighbors.

Median home of $165,300 yields $2,006 annual tax

A typical Young County home valued at $165,300 carries approximately $2,006 in yearly property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay about $2,525 when additional fees are included.

Review assessments to catch overvaluation mistakes

Properties in Young County may be assessed higher than market value. Filing an appeal during the county's designated window could lower your tax obligation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Young County

via CostByCounty

Young County Beats the National Housing Crunch

Young County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio undercuts the national housing affordability crisis, where many Americans spend 20%+ of income on rent. At $849 monthly rent against a $63,723 median income, renters here are in significantly better shape than typical U.S. counterparts.

More Affordable Than Most of Texas

Young County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio beats Texas's 18.1% average, positioning the county among the state's more affordable rural markets. Renters pay $114 less per month than the state median, a meaningful difference for working families.

Balanced Market Between County Peers

Young County's $849 rent nearly matches Wood County ($851) and undercuts Yoakum County ($931), while its $63,723 income is similar to Wood County but trails Yoakum County's $82,261. It represents a middle ground for families seeking rural North-Central Texas affordability.

Housing Takes 31% of Young County Budgets

Renters allocate 16% of income to rent, while homeowners spend roughly 15% on monthly costs of $817—the highest owner burden in this group. Combined, housing consumes about 31% of household income, slightly above the 28% comfort zone but reflective of modest incomes in rural areas.

Solid Middle Option in North-Central Texas

Young County offers straightforward rural affordability with reasonable rents and achievable homeownership at median values of $165,300. If you want small-town living without extreme price pressure, compare Young County's $849 rent against neighboring markets.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Young County

via IncomeByCounty

Young County Below National Standard

Young County's median household income of $63,723 sits about 15% below the national median of $74,755, placing it below the U.S. average. This gap reflects an economy with lower average household earnings than most American counties.

Slightly Below Texas Average

At $63,723, Young County's median income falls just short of the Texas state average of $64,737 by roughly $1,000. This positions Young County as nearly typical for Texas, though slightly lagging statewide norms.

Young County Middle-Ground Position

Young County's $63,723 income places it between Wood County's $62,524 and the higher-earning Yoakum County at $82,261. The county sits solidly in the middle tier of its regional peer group.

Affordable Housing Market

Young County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio keeps housing costs manageable, with residents spending about one-sixth of earnings on rent. The median home value of $165,300 makes homeownership particularly achievable in this county.

Maximize Savings on Current Income

With median incomes around $63,700, Young County residents should prioritize building emergency reserves and retirement contributions through automatic savings. Even with moderate income levels, consistent investing over decades can create substantial long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Young County

via CrimeByCounty

Young County Ranks High for National Safety

Young County holds a safety score of 98.5, indicating a very secure environment compared to the U.S. average. Its total crime rate of 977.5 per 100,000 is much lower than the national mark of 2,385.5.

Outperforming State Crime Averages

The county's total crime rate of 977.5 is roughly 52% lower than the Texas average of 2,052.5 per 100,000 residents. Young County also boasts a safety score higher than the state average of 96.8.

A Regional Leader in Public Safety

Young County shares a similar safety profile with Wood County, with both keeping total crime under 1,000 per 100,000. Data from four reporting agencies helps the county maintain transparency in its safety efforts.

Violent and Property Crime Totals

Property crimes are recorded at 804.3 per 100,000, while violent crimes occur at a low rate of 173.2. Both figures are significantly better than the national averages of 2,015.7 and 369.8, respectively.

Keep Your Home and Family Secure

Young County’s peaceful atmosphere is supported by proactive residents who monitor their property. Basic deterrents like smart doorbells and reinforced locks are effective tools for home protection.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Young County

via HealthByCounty

Young County has the shortest lifespans

At 71.2 years, Young County residents live 2.3 years shorter lives than the U.S. average of 73.5 years—a significant health disadvantage. Though 21.9% report poor or fair health, nearly matching the national rate of 23.4%, the lower life expectancy signals deeper health system challenges.

Last in Texas for life expectancy

Young County ranks among Texas's worst performers on life expectancy at 71.2 years, trailing the state average of 74.3 years by 3.1 years. Its 21.1% uninsured rate is slightly above the Texas average of 19.8%, adding access barriers to an already struggling population.

Longest wait for providers, shortest lives

Young County paradoxically has the most primary care providers (83 per 100K) and mental health providers (83 per 100K) among its peers, yet the shortest life expectancy at 71.2 years—suggesting systemic, not just access, challenges. Despite abundant providers, residents still live 3+ years shorter than Wise County.

More doctors, but deeper health troubles

Young County boasts 83 primary care providers and 83 mental health providers per 100K—triple the regional average—yet its life expectancy remains the lowest in the region. With 21.1% uninsured, residents may struggle affording care even when available.

Healthcare coverage is a vital first step

Young County's 21.1% uninsured rate means thousands lack the financial foundation for consistent healthcare. Even with abundant providers locally, coverage gaps prevent preventive care; enroll at Healthcare.gov or contact local health department assistance programs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Young County

via SchoolsByCounty

The Educational Landscape of Young County

Young County supports a student body of 3,210 through eight public schools distributed among three districts. The network is composed of two elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools, along with one specialized 'other' facility. This structure provides comprehensive coverage for families living in Graham, Olney, and Newcastle.

High Graduation Standards and Steady Scores

Young County achieves a stellar 96.1% graduation rate, nearly ten points higher than the national average of 87.0%. Despite a per-pupil expenditure of $7,363, which is slightly below the Texas average, the county maintains a solid school score of 57.5. These results demonstrate that local schools are successfully navigating budgetary constraints to produce top-tier graduates.

Graham ISD Leads the Way

Graham ISD is the largest district by far, serving 2,261 students across four campuses. Olney ISD supports 729 students, while Newcastle ISD operates a single school serving 220 students. Traditional public districts account for all educational offerings in the county, as there are currently no charter schools in operation.

A Mixture of Town and Rural Learning

Seven of the county's eight schools are located in town settings, creating a centralized feel for most students. Graham Elementary is the largest school by enrollment with 1,050 students, whereas Newcastle School provides a much smaller, all-level experience for 220 students. The average school size is 401, offering a variety of environments from larger campuses to intimate rural settings.

Find Your Home in a Top-Tier District

Families looking for proven academic results will find Young County's high graduation rates and community-focused schools highly attractive. Whether you prefer the larger Graham ISD or the small-town charm of Olney and Newcastle, there is a perfect home waiting for you. Explore local real estate to find a house that places your family near these successful public institutions.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Young County

via RiskByCounty

Young County has very low national disaster risk

Young County's composite risk score of 36.35 earns it a very low risk rating, placing it well below the national average for natural hazard exposure. The county's hazard profile is remarkably balanced, with no single threat dominating the overall risk landscape.

Among Texas's safest counties for disasters

Young County scores 36.35, significantly below the Texas state average of 49.00, and ranks among the safest counties in the state for natural disaster exposure. This favorable position reflects the county's distance from major hurricane paths and its low earthquake and flood exposure.

Safest county in its North Texas cluster

Young County (36.35) ranks as the lowest-risk neighbor in its peer group, notably safer than Wise County (58.97), Wood County (63.23), and Yoakum County (46.06). Only Zapata County (31.36) presents lower composite risk in the broader regional comparison.

Wildfire is primary concern in Young County

Wildfire risk at 90.11 is Young County's dominant hazard, requiring proactive defensible space maintenance and property hardening measures. Tornado (49.81) and hurricane (41.93) risks remain moderate and manageable with standard homeowners coverage and emergency preparedness.

Focus on wildfire preparedness and prevention

Young County residents should invest in wildfire-specific risk mitigation, including clearing 30+ feet of vegetation around homes and using fire-resistant roofing materials. Standard homeowners insurance covering tornado and wind is adequate for secondary hazards, but explicitly confirm wildfire coverage is included and understand any exclusions.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Young County

via WeatherByCounty

A classic North Texas climate

Young County features an annual average temperature of 64.2°F, placing it above the national median. It averages 29.6 inches of precipitation, which is just slightly below the Texas state average.

Slightly cooler than state norms

The county sits about one degree below the 65.5°F Texas average. It balances 108 extreme heat days with cold winter snaps that characterize the North Texas plains.

Transitioning to the dry west

Young County is drier than its eastern neighbors but more temperate than the counties in the Panhandle. Snowfall data is limited, suggesting it is not a regular occurrence in this region.

Hot summers and crisp winters

July temperatures average a hot 84.8°F, contributing to over 100 days of extreme heat. Winters are cool and dry, with a January average of 43.1°F.

Focus on summer cooling

With 108 days over 90°F, residents should ensure air conditioning systems are serviced before the 83.3°F summer average hits. Shade structures are vital for outdoor spaces during the intense July heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Young County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced pH Near the State Average

Young County’s soil features a pH of 7.16, placing it very close to the Texas average of 7.09 but above the national median of 6.5. While its dominant texture is not formally classified in this data, the pH levels support a wide range of nutrient availability for local plants.

A Sandy-Loam Mix with Substantial Silt

The soil consists of 49.1% sand, 28.9% silt, and 21.6% clay, creating a relatively balanced structure. This mixture provides better nutrient retention than sandy soils while maintaining manageable workability for farmers and gardeners.

Strong Water Capacity and Moderate Organic Matter

At 1.56%, organic matter is nearly on par with the state average of 1.66% and supports a respectable soil score of 30.7. The available water capacity of 0.131 in/in is almost identical to the Texas benchmark, offering reliable moisture for dryland farming.

Hydrologic Constraints on Heavy Soils

The soil belongs to hydrologic group D, which typically indicates high runoff potential and slower infiltration during rain events. Without a specific drainage class recorded, growers should monitor for standing water to prevent root rot.

Abundant Opportunities in Zone 8a

The warm climate of Zone 8a is perfect for growing pecans, peaches, and hearty summer squash. With soil quality that exceeds the state average, Young County is an excellent place to establish a productive home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Young County

via LawnByCounty

Young County offers a moderate lawn challenge

Scoring 37.3 on the difficulty index, this county sits above the Texas average but below the national 50.0 baseline. The Zone 8a environment requires balancing high heat with limited precipitation to keep turf green. It is a manageable climate for those willing to monitor their water use closely.

High heat days drive water demand

With 108 extreme heat days—higher than the state average—lawns here face significant thermal stress. Annual precipitation of 29.6 inches is just under the ideal 30-inch mark, necessitating supplemental irrigation. The 6005 growing degree days provide a very long and active season for warm-season grasses.

Neutral pH supports diverse grass types

The soil pH of 7.16 is nearly perfect for most lawn varieties, sitting just above the ideal range. While specific drainage data is limited, the 49.1% sand and 21.6% clay composition suggests a relatively balanced texture. This allows for decent root penetration and standard nutrient uptake without heavy amendments.

Consistent dry conditions require strategy

The county has spent 17 weeks in drought over the last year, and 100% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Using smart irrigation controllers can help manage the 108 extreme heat days without wasting water. Focus on maintaining a taller grass height to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Bermuda grass dominates in Zone 8a

Bermuda grass is the gold standard here due to its heat tolerance and ability to go dormant during dry spells. Plan to seed or sod in mid-April once the spring frost risk ends on April 1. This timing gives your lawn the best chance to establish before the summer heat intensifies.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Young County's county score?
Young County, Texas has a composite county score of 46.2 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 Young County rank among counties in Texas?
Young County ranks #95 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 Young County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Young County is $2,006, with an effective tax rate of 1.21%. This earns Young County a tax score of 25/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Young County?
The median household income in Young County, Texas is $63,723 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Young County earns an income score of 50.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Young County, Texas a good place to live?
Young County scores 46.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #95 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Young 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 Young 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.