countyscore
43.8
County Score
Cost of Living 92.2Safety 65.2Water Quality 56.6

County Report Card

About Zavala County, Texas

Zavala County Scores Near National Average

Zavala County holds a composite score of 43.8, placing it just below the national median of 50.0. It remains a competitive option within its rural geographic context.

Better Than the Average Texas County

The county's score of 43.8 beats the Texas state average of 41.9. This indicates that despite national challenges, Zavala offers better livability than many other parts of the state.

Superior Housing Affordability and Reliable Safety

Residents enjoy exceptionally low living costs, evidenced by a Cost Score of 92.2 and a median rent of $544. A Safety Score of 65.2 adds to the county's appeal as a secure place to live.

Improving Local Health and Income Levels

Economic growth is limited, with an Income Score of 4.2 and a median household income of $41,887. Healthcare access also requires attention, as indicated by a low Health Score of 5.2.

Best for Budget-Conscious, Independent Residents

This county suits people who prioritize low monthly expenses and personal safety above all else. It is a solid choice for those who are retired or have stable, non-local employment.

Score breakdown

Tax16.5Cost92.2Safety65.2Health5.2Schools33.3Income4.2Risk46.4Water56.6Weather11.4
🏛16.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠92.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼4.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡65.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤5.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓33.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡46.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧56.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤11.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱8.8
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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Counties with similar scores

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Noble County
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Laurens County
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Crawford County
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Nearby counties

Dimmit County
Texas
51.4
Frio County
Texas
36.3
Uvalde County
Texas
25.6
Maverick County
Texas
32.5
Kinney County
Texas
64.9
La Salle County
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53.6
Medina County
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36.8
Real County
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33.6

Deep Dives

Zavala County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Zavala County

via TaxByCounty

Zavala taxes above national norm but still modest

At 1.423%, Zavala County's effective rate runs 11% higher than the national median of 1.276%, landing it in the upper-middle tier nationally. Despite this, the county's low home values keep actual tax bills modest.

Highest rate among four counties, still near Texas average

Zavala's 1.423% effective rate exceeds the Texas average of 1.276%, marking it the most heavily taxed of the four counties. Yet the median tax of $1,254 remains $939 below the state median, thanks to low property valuations.

Zavala has steepest tax rate in the region

At 1.423%, Zavala's effective rate tops Yoakum (0.981%), Young (1.214%), and Zapata (1.027%), making it the highest-taxed county examined. The gap reflects different local tax structures rather than higher home values.

Median home at $88,100 pays $1,254 yearly taxes

Zavala's median property value of $88,100 generates approximately $1,254 in annual taxes under the 1.423% rate. Even with the region's highest effective rate, total tax bills remain low due to modest home valuations.

Contest assessments that exceed neighborhood comparables

Higher tax rates increase the importance of accurate assessments in Zavala County. File an appeal if your property is valued significantly above similar homes in your immediate area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Zavala County

via CostByCounty

Zavala County Achieves Rent Affordability Despite Low Incomes

Zavala County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio beats the national average, but this affordability comes from bargain-basement rents rather than strong earnings. With a median household income of $41,887—44% below the national median—the county offers cheap housing in an economically constrained community.

Below-Average Income, Below-Average Rents

Zavala County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio slightly underperforms Texas's 18.1% state average, driven by the state's lowest median rent of $544. Despite affordable rents, the county's $41,887 median income remains a significant economic constraint for residents.

South Texas's Budget Housing Market

Zavala County's $544 rent is the lowest among these five counties, matching Zapata County's economic profile with similarly modest incomes of $41,887 versus $36,527. Both represent South Texas's tight economic realities, though Zavala County offers slightly better earning potential.

Rents Consume 16% of Income Here

Zavala County renters allocate 15.6% of their $41,887 annual income to rent, while homeowners spend roughly 17% on monthly costs of $583. Combined, housing takes roughly 33% of household income—above the comfort threshold but partially offset by genuinely low nominal costs.

Extreme Budget Option for Remote Workers

Zavala County offers Texas's lowest rents and home values ($88,100 median), making it viable only if you bring external income or have secured remote work. Without strong local job markets, this county is best suited for families with stable income sources outside the local economy.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Zavala County

via IncomeByCounty

Zavala County Well Below National Median

Zavala County's median household income of $41,887 runs approximately 44% below the U.S. median of $74,755, reflecting severe economic constraints. This substantial gap indicates households here earn less than three-fifths of what typical American families earn.

Significantly Below Texas Standard

At $41,887, Zavala County's median income represents just 65% of the Texas state average of $64,737, highlighting a county economy trailing statewide performance. This 35% shortfall underscores persistent regional economic challenges.

Zavala Among Region's Lower Earners

Zavala County's $41,887 income edges slightly above Zapata County's $36,527 but lags far behind Yoakum County's $82,261. The county ranks near the bottom of its regional peer group in median household earnings.

Housing Still Affordable Relative

Zavala County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio means households spend just over one-sixth of earnings on rent, staying below the 30% affordability threshold. Though incomes are low, the median home value of $88,100 keeps housing relatively accessible.

Focused Strategies for Limited Income

Zavala County residents earning around $41,887 should prioritize financial stability through employer retirement plans and government assistance programs before pursuing additional investments. Partnering with nonprofit financial counselors and community credit unions can help maximize limited income for long-term security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Zavala County

via CrimeByCounty

Zavala County Outpaces National Safety Rates

Zavala County earns a strong 98.7 safety score, indicating it is much safer than the typical U.S. community. Its total crime rate of 814.4 per 100,000 is nearly three times lower than the national average.

Superior Safety Scores in Texas

The county's safety score of 98.7 is higher than the Texas average of 96.8. Zavala’s total crime rate of 814.4 per 100,000 residents is significantly lower than the state average of 2,052.5.

Safe Standing Among Regional Peers

Zavala County reports lower crime than Wise County but experiences more incidents than nearby Zapata County. Two local agencies provide the data used to monitor these public safety trends.

Breakdown of Local Crime Categories

Property crimes occur at a rate of 577.3 per 100,000, while violent crime is 237.1. Both of these figures are well below the national property crime rate of 2,015.7 and violent crime rate of 369.8.

Proactive Security for Zavala Residents

Personal home security is a key part of maintaining the county’s low crime profile. Smart technology and community vigilance help deter property crime and keep neighborhoods secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Zavala County

via HealthByCounty

Zavala County faces severe health crisis

At 69.9 years, Zavala County residents live 3.6 years shorter lives than the U.S. average of 73.5 years—a profound gap. Combined with 35.9% reporting poor or fair health—12.5 points above the national rate of 23.4%—the county is experiencing a major public health emergency.

Texas's poorest health outcomes overall

Zavala County ranks among Texas's worst performers with a 69.9-year life expectancy trailing the state average of 74.3 by 4.4 years. Though its 17.1% uninsured rate is slightly below the state average, the lower coverage gap does little to offset severe underlying health challenges.

Critically ahead of Yoakum in need

Zavala County's 69.9-year life expectancy is the lowest in the region—3.8 years below Young County and 5.2 years below Wise County. Its 35.9% poor/fair health rate is alarming; primary care provider data is unavailable, raising concerns about whether adequate care exists.

Limited provider data, high disease burden

Zavala County's 35.9% poor/fair health rate signals widespread chronic disease, yet primary care provider numbers are unavailable, making it unclear whether local capacity exists. Mental health providers at 64 per 100K offer some support, but the county's 69.9-year life expectancy suggests systemic care gaps.

Insurance alone cannot solve all health gaps

Although Zavala County's 17.1% uninsured rate is relatively low, the county's dire health outcomes demand urgent action beyond enrollment. Residents and county leaders should prioritize comprehensive health initiatives; those without coverage should still enroll at Healthcare.gov to build a foundation.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Zavala County

via SchoolsByCounty

Zavala County’s Public School Framework

Zavala County hosts eight public schools across two school districts, serving a total enrollment of 2,399 students. The school system is structured with five elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools. This distribution provides a strong foundation for early learners across the county’s diverse communities.

Meeting Benchmarks and Overcoming Challenges

Zavala County reports an 88.8% graduation rate, which remains higher than the national average of 87.0%. The county spends $6,392 per pupil, working to maximize results with a composite school score of 51.6. Local educators are focused on bridging gaps as they work toward meeting state-level performance benchmarks.

Crystal City ISD Leads Enrollment

Crystal City ISD is the largest district in the county, educating 1,799 students through five different schools. La Pryor ISD serves the remaining 491 students with its two dedicated campuses. Traditional public education is the only option in the county, as there are no charter schools currently operating.

Mid-Sized Schools in a Town Setting

The average school size in Zavala County is 300 students, offering a mid-range environment that is neither too crowded nor isolated. Five schools are located in town settings, while three are in rural areas, with Crystal City High School being the largest at 551 students. Smaller facilities like Dr. Tomas Rivera Elementary, with 263 students, highlight the county's focus on early childhood settings.

Discover Opportunities in Zavala County

For families looking for a community with accessible public schools and a graduation rate that beats the national average, Zavala County offers several options. Homes in Crystal City and La Pryor provide direct access to districts that serve as the heart of these local towns. Explore the area today to see how these schools can fit your family's needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Zavala County

via RiskByCounty

Zavala County presents relatively low disaster risk

Zavala County's composite risk score of 53.63 places it in the relatively low risk category and near the national average for natural hazard exposure. The county's profile is shaped by dual flood and hurricane threats balanced against very low earthquake exposure.

Slightly above Texas average but manageable

Zavala County scores 53.63, marginally above the Texas state average of 49.00, placing it in the middle tier of risk across the state. The elevation is driven by flood (67.02) and hurricane (60.28) risks while other hazards remain minimal.

Moderate risk between safest and riskiest peers

Zavala County (53.63) ranks between its neighbors, comparable to Wise County (58.97) but noticeably safer than Wood County (63.23) and higher-risk than Young County (36.35) and Zapata County (31.36). Its flood risk (67.02) is the highest among its peer group.

Flood and hurricane risks drive Zavala exposure

Flood risk reaches 67.02 in Zavala County—the county's dominant hazard—while hurricane risk of 60.28 reflects Gulf Coast proximity and storm exposure during Atlantic hurricane season. Tornado (28.91), wildfire (35.34), and earthquake (7.16) risks remain minimal by comparison.

Flood and hurricane coverage are essential here

Zavala County homeowners must secure separate flood insurance, as standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage and the county's 67.02 flood risk demands specific coverage. Verify your policy includes hurricane and wind protection, and consider elevated or reinforced construction if you live in a flood-prone area.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Zavala County

via WeatherByCounty

Zavala County Ranks Among the Nation's Warmest

With an average annual temperature of 72.7°F, Zavala County is significantly warmer than the national median of approximately 54°F. This South Texas region maintains a semi-arid subtropical climate characterized by persistent heat and limited rainfall.

Heat Levels Far Exceed the Texas Average

The county’s annual temperature of 72.7°F sits nearly seven degrees higher than the Texas state average of 65.5°F. While the state averages 31.9 inches of rain annually, Zavala receives only 21.2 inches, placing it among the state's drier interior territories.

Consistent Heat Across the Winter Garden Region

Zavala shares its 72.7°F thermal profile with neighboring Dimmit and Maverick counties, defining a region known for intense agricultural heat. These neighbors all struggle with similar precipitation deficits compared to the wetter Gulf Coast counties to the east.

Five Months of Extreme Summer Heat

The county endures 154 days per year where temperatures reach or exceed 90°F, far surpassing typical national averages. Winters are exceptionally mild at 57.3°F, and the area records 0.0 inches of annual snowfall on average.

Prepare for Intense Sun and High Cooling Costs

Residents must maintain robust HVAC systems to handle the 154 days of extreme heat each year. Given the low 21.2-inch annual rainfall, water conservation and heat-protective gear are essential for any outdoor planning or landscaping.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Zavala County

via SoilByCounty

Exploring the Soil Potential of Zavala

Current data for Zavala County’s soil pH and taxonomic order remains unclassified in the primary records. While neighbors typically see alkaline levels, local testing is essential to compare your specific site against the national 6.5 median.

A Local Mystery in Soil Texture

Percentages for sand, silt, and clay are not available in the current dataset for this county. Understanding your own dirt’s drainage and workability starts with a simple jar test to see how your specific mix of particles settles.

Measuring Organic Life in the Garden

With organic matter and water capacity figures unrecorded, we look to the surrounding region’s averages for clues. In the absence of a soil score, focusing on adding compost can bridge the gap toward the state average of 1.66% organic matter.

Navigating Unmapped Drainage Patterns

The hydrologic group and drainage class for this area are not currently documented in the federal database. Local growers should watch for erosion or pooling to understand how their land handles the occasional South Texas downpour.

Thriving in the Warmth of Zone 9a

Even without specific soil data, the 9a hardiness zone promises a long, warm season for peppers, tomatoes, and even citrus. Residents are encouraged to start small and use raised beds to create the perfect growing environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Zavala County

via LawnByCounty

Maintaining turf is a steep uphill battle

Zavala County is one of the toughest spots for lawns, holding a difficulty score of just 8.8. This Zone 9a region is far more challenging than the national median due to its intense environment and water scarcity. Success here requires moving away from traditional lawn expectations toward xeric principles.

Brutal heat and low precipitation

Annual rainfall is just 21.2 inches, while extreme heat days soar to 154 per year. The massive 8406 growing degree days mean that even if grass survives, it requires constant attention and water. Mowing starts early here, as the last spring frost typically occurs by February 10.

Limited soil data requires local testing

Specific soil characteristics like pH and texture are not currently mapped for this county. Given the 21.2 inches of rain and high heat, soil testing is a critical first step for any grower. Improving organic matter is generally a universal requirement in this arid South Texas climate.

Persistent drought plagues the region

The county has spent all 53 of the last weeks in drought, and 100% of the land remains in severe conditions. In such a climate, the most responsible lawn is a small, highly managed patch or a native prairie restoration. Every drop of water counts when competing with 154 days of 90-plus degree weather.

Select for extreme heat tolerance

Focus on drought-hardy species like Buffalo grass or specific hybrid Bermudas designed for the desert Southwest. Planting should occur in late February or March to establish roots before the 154-day heat wave begins. Be prepared for a high-maintenance relationship with your irrigation system.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zavala County's county score?
Zavala County, Texas has a composite county score of 43.8 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 Zavala County rank among counties in Texas?
Zavala County ranks #112 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 Zavala County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Zavala County is $1,254, with an effective tax rate of 1.42%. This earns Zavala County a tax score of 16.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Zavala County?
The median household income in Zavala County, Texas is $41,887 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Zavala County earns an income score of 4.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Zavala County, Texas a good place to live?
Zavala County scores 43.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #112 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Zavala 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 Zavala 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.