Reasons to Move to Wood County, Texas

Wood County, Texas, offers a unique blend of rural charm and modern conveniences, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a change of pace without sacrificing access to essential services. Located just over an hour from the vibrant city of Tyler, this county is known for its lush landscapes, including beautiful lakes, rolling hills, and forests. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking to enjoy boating on Lake Fork, a popular fishing destination, or someone who prefers the quiet of small-town living, Wood County has something to offer. The county’s growing economy, driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and retail, ensures job opportunities while maintaining a close-knit community atmosphere.

Beyond the picturesque scenery, Wood County stands out for its tight-knit communities and affordable living. With its low property taxes and reasonable cost of living, residents enjoy a high quality of life that’s hard to find in larger urban areas. Small towns like Mineola and Winnsboro offer a welcoming environment, while larger hubs provide access to modern healthcare and schools. Wood County’s strategic location provides the best of both worlds: rural tranquility with convenient access to nearby metropolitan areas. If you’re considering a move here, Wood County’s combination of natural beauty, economic potential, and community spirit may make it the perfect place to call home.

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Cost of living in Wood County, Texas

Housing Costs

The median home price in Wood County, Texas, is approximately $180,000, based on recent real estate data. This is considerably lower than the national median home price, which is around $400,000. Rental prices are also more affordable in the area. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $850 per month, and a three-bedroom home typically rents for around $1,200 to $1,500 per month. These costs can vary depending on the specific town or area within Wood County.

Source: Zillow – Wood County Home Values

Utilities

The average monthly utility cost for a 915 square-foot apartment in Wood County is approximately $150 to $200. This includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage services. The cost can fluctuate based on the size of the home and the number of occupants. The average cost of electricity is around 12.5 cents per kilowatt-hour, which is relatively typical for the region.

Source: Numbeo – Wood County Utility Costs

Groceries/Food

The cost of groceries in Wood County is slightly lower than the national average. A typical grocery bill for a single person can range from $250 to $350 per month, depending on eating habits and grocery shopping choices. Some of the most common items, such as milk, bread, eggs, and produce, are priced competitively. For example, a gallon of milk costs about $2.50, while a loaf of bread is around $1.50.

Source: BestPlaces – Wood County Cost of Living

Transportation

Transportation costs in Wood County are lower than in urban areas. The average price for gasoline in the area is approximately $3.30 per gallon. Public transportation options are limited due to the rural nature of the county, so most residents rely on personal vehicles. The average monthly cost for car ownership, including insurance, fuel, and maintenance, is approximately $500 to $700. For those living outside of major towns, owning a car is often a necessity.

Source: Numbeo – Wood County Transportation Costs

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Wood County are relatively affordable compared to national averages. The average cost of a doctor’s visit is approximately $100 to $150. Health insurance premiums can vary based on coverage, but for an individual, the monthly premium for a silver plan on the Affordable Care Act marketplace is around $300 to $400. Prescription medication prices also tend to be lower, with the average cost of a basic prescription at around $10 to $30 for generic drugs.

Source: HealthCare.gov – Average Premium

Childcare and Education

The cost of childcare in Wood County can range from $600 to $1,000 per month for full-time daycare, depending on the age of the child and the facility’s quality. Public schools in the area are generally free, though families may need to budget for school supplies, extracurricular activities, and meals. Private school tuition in the area typically ranges from $4,000 to $7,000 per year.

Source: Care.com – Wood County Childcare Costs

Taxes

Wood County, Texas, has no state income tax, which is a significant benefit for residents. The county’s sales tax rate is 8.25%, with 6.25% going to the state of Texas and 2% to local jurisdictions. Property taxes in Wood County are higher than the national average, with an average effective property tax rate of 1.8%. This means the owner of a $200,000 home would pay around $3,600 in property taxes annually.

Source: Tax-Rates.org – Wood County Property Tax

Insurance

The average cost of homeowners insurance in Wood County is approximately $1,200 per year, which is slightly below the Texas state average. For car insurance, the average annual premium for a full coverage policy is about $1,200 to $1,500. These costs can vary depending on the specific town, type of coverage, and individual circumstances.

Source: ValuePenguin – Texas Homeowners Insurance

Recreation and Entertainment

The cost of recreation and entertainment in Wood County is relatively low, with many outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating being accessible at minimal cost. Movie tickets typically cost around $10, while dining out at mid-range restaurants averages between $15 and $25 per person. Membership to local fitness centers is usually around $30 to $50 per month.

Source: Numbeo – Wood County Recreation Costs

Clothing

Clothing costs in Wood County are comparable to the national average. A pair of jeans typically costs about $40 to $60, while a summer dress can range from $25 to $50. Shoes and other accessories are similarly priced, with average costs for a pair of running shoes being around $50 to $80.

Source: Numbeo – Wood County Clothing Costs

Personal Care

Personal care costs in Wood County are also affordable. A typical visit to the dentist for a checkup and cleaning is approximately $100 to $150. Haircuts generally cost around $15 to $25, depending on the salon or barbershop. Personal care items like shampoo, soap, and toothpaste are priced similarly to national averages.

Source: Numbeo – Wood County Personal Care Costs

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses such as pet care, household supplies, and entertainment costs are relatively low in Wood County. For example, a monthly pet care expense for food and supplies may range from $50 to $75, and household cleaning products are priced similarly to national averages.

Source: Numbeo – Wood County Miscellaneous Expenses

Is Wood County, Texas a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

The overall crime rate in Wood County, Texas, is higher than the national average. According to data from the NeighborhoodScout, the crime rate in Wood County is about 18.55 crimes per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the U.S. average of 15.0 per 1,000 people. However, the crime rate can vary significantly depending on the specific area within the county.

Violent Crime Rate

The violent crime rate in Wood County is relatively low compared to the state and national averages. Based on data from the NeighborhoodScout, the violent crime rate is approximately 2.9 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the U.S. average of 4.0 per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes include offenses such as assault, robbery, and murder.

Property Crime Rate

Property crime in Wood County is more prevalent than violent crime. The property crime rate stands at about 15.9 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 13.3 per 1,000 residents. Property crimes include burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. This data is available from the NeighborhoodScout.

Police Presence

Wood County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the Wood County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments. The sheriff’s office is responsible for county-wide law enforcement, while municipal police handle law enforcement in specific cities within the county. However, the overall police presence is considered to be lower compared to more urbanized areas, which may affect response times. For more details, you can visit the Wood County Sheriff’s Office website.

Neighborhood Watch Programs

Neighborhood watch programs are an important component of local safety. While data on the specific number of active neighborhood watch programs in Wood County is scarce, many communities in the county likely have local initiatives aimed at preventing crime and fostering a sense of community. For more details, check with your local neighborhood association or community leaders.

Safety Rankings

Wood County’s safety rankings tend to fluctuate depending on specific localities. According to data from AreaVibes, the county overall is rated as a “D+” for safety, which is lower than the national average. However, this ranking does not reflect specific areas, so some parts of the county may be much safer than others.

Trend Data

Crime rates in Wood County have shown a slight decrease in recent years, according to available trend data from NeighborhoodScout. While there are occasional fluctuations in violent and property crime rates, the overall trend shows a decline in the past five years, with a decrease in burglaries and motor vehicle thefts.

School Safety

Wood County schools generally maintain a safe environment for students, with no significant incidents reported in recent years. Safety measures, including school resource officers and various security protocols, are in place across many districts. However, specific details can vary by district. For more information, you can visit individual school district websites such as Wood ISD or Alba-Golden ISD.

What are the demographics of Wood County, Texas?

White

The population of White residents in Wood County, Texas, is the largest racial group. According to the 2020 U.S. Census data, White residents make up approximately 84.7% of the total population of the county. This includes individuals who identify as non-Hispanic White as well as those who identify as White in combination with other races.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Black or African American

Black or African American residents represent about 9.2% of the total population in Wood County, Texas, according to the most recent 2020 U.S. Census data.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Hispanic or Latino

The Hispanic or Latino population in Wood County accounts for approximately 10.5% of the county’s total population as per the 2020 U.S. Census data. This category includes individuals who identify as Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or other Spanish cultures, regardless of race.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Two or More Races

Residents who identify as two or more races represent approximately 2.5% of the population of Wood County, Texas, according to the 2020 Census.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Asian

Asian residents make up about 0.7% of the total population of Wood County, Texas. This category includes individuals of East Asian, Southeast Asian, or South Asian descent.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Native American

The Native American population in Wood County, Texas, is estimated to be around 0.4% of the total population, based on data from the 2020 U.S. Census.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander residents make up less than 0.1% of the population in Wood County, Texas. The 2020 U.S. Census data reflects a very small percentage of this group in the county.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Sources

Wood County, Texas Population by Age and Gender

The total population of Wood County, Texas, as of the 2020 U.S. Census is 44,715. This reflects a moderate increase from the previous decade, showing growth in the area, driven in part by its appealing rural lifestyle and proximity to larger cities like Tyler and Longview.

For more information on the total population and related data, refer to the U.S. Census Bureau (2020 Census).

Population by Gender

For the latest gender-specific data, check the U.S. Census Bureau (2020 Census).

Age Distribution

  • Under 18 years: 21.3% (9,536 individuals)
  • 18 to 24 years: 5.7% (2,551 individuals)
  • 25 to 44 years: 18.9% (8,463 individuals)
  • 45 to 64 years: 27.2% (12,189 individuals)
  • 65 years and older: 26.9% (12,021 individuals)

This age distribution shows a significant proportion of the population in the 45 and older categories, indicative of the county’s appeal to retirees and those seeking a slower-paced, rural lifestyle.

For more details on the age breakdown, refer to U.S. Census Bureau (2020 Census).

Median Age

For the latest median age statistics, visit U.S. Census Bureau (2020 Census).

Dependency Ratios

For further information on dependency ratios in Wood County, check out the U.S. Census Bureau Projections.

Sex Ratio

For more data on sex ratios in Wood County, visit U.S. Census Bureau (2020 Census).

Sources:

Wood County, Texas Zip Codes

Wood County, Texas, primarily has the following ZIP codes:

  • 75751
  • 75756
  • 75765
  • 75770
  • 75771
  • 75773
  • 75784
  • 75801
  • 75949

This ZIP code covers the majority of the Wood County, Texas area.

What is the history of Wood County, Texas?

Wood County, Texas, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1850. The county was named after George T. Wood, a former governor of Texas who served from 1847 to 1849. Before becoming a county, the land that is now Wood County was home to Native American tribes, including the Caddo, who lived in the area for centuries. These tribes lived off the land, hunting, fishing, and farming in the lush forests and around the many rivers and lakes that still define the region today.

The area was originally part of the larger Nacogdoches District, and settlement began after Texas gained independence from Mexico in 1836. European-American settlers began to arrive in the region in the 1830s, lured by the fertile soil and abundant natural resources. The establishment of roads and trading posts made it easier for settlers to move into the area, and by the 1840s, the population had grown enough to warrant the creation of Wood County. The county was officially organized on March 24, 1850, with Quitman, named after the Mississippi governor John A. Quitman, becoming the county seat.

During the Civil War, Wood County, like much of Texas, was a part of the Confederacy. Many residents supported the Southern cause, and the region saw its share of hardships during the war. Following the end of the Civil War and the Reconstruction era, Wood County slowly rebuilt its economy, primarily through agriculture. Cotton was a major crop, and the introduction of railroads in the late 1800s helped boost the region’s economy even further by connecting it to larger markets across Texas and beyond.

The 20th century saw significant changes in the county. The timber industry began to thrive due to the dense forests that covered the land, and new industries such as oil and natural gas started to play a larger role in the economy. Population growth continued as families moved to the area seeking work, and small towns like Mineola, Winnsboro, and Hawkins began to grow into important local centers of commerce. The construction of Lake Fork Reservoir in the 1980s brought a new wave of tourism and development, with the lake becoming one of the top bass fishing destinations in the country.

Today, Wood County remains a blend of its historical roots and modern growth. While it has evolved from an agricultural economy to one more focused on tourism, retail, and services, it still maintains a rural charm. Many of the old towns, such as Quitman and Mineola, retain their historical architecture and are recognized for their charm and community spirit. Wood County is also known for its scenic beauty, from its forests and lakes to its rural farmlands.

For more detailed information on the history of Wood County, refer to the Texas History Collection.

Sources:

Wood County, Texas Weather

The average temperature in Wood County, Texas, varies significantly throughout the year. During the summer months, temperatures are typically hot, with average highs in July reaching around 94°F (34.4°C). Nights during the summer are cooler, with average lows around 72°F (22.2°C). In the winter, temperatures are milder compared to northern states, with average highs in January around 54°F (12.2°C) and lows averaging 34°F (1.1°C). These temperatures make Wood County’s climate subtropical and temperate, ideal for those who enjoy warm weather year-round.

For more information on the weather in Wood County, check the US Climate Data.

Precipitation Patterns in Wood County, Texas

For more detailed precipitation statistics in Wood County, visit US Climate Data.

Extreme Weather Events in Wood County, Texas

For more information on weather patterns and historical extreme events, refer to National Weather Service.

Humidity Levels in Wood County, Texas

For more information on humidity trends in Texas, visit US Climate Data.

Sunlight in Wood County, Texas

For more on sunlight and seasonal weather patterns, visit The Weather Channel.

Wind Patterns in Wood County, Texas

For more details on wind patterns in Wood County, refer to National Weather Service.

Sources:

Average Income in Wood County, Texas

Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary in Wood County, Texas, is approximately $41,000, based on recent data. This figure can vary depending on the specific industry, education level, and experience of individuals within the county. The income levels in Wood County tend to be lower than the national average due to the rural nature of the area.

Source: ZipRecruiter – Wood County, TX Average Salary

Average Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage in Wood County, Texas, is about $20 per hour. This rate is consistent with other rural counties in Texas, although it is lower than the national average for hourly wages, which is about $25 per hour. Factors such as the job market and local economic conditions contribute to this disparity.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics – Texas Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics

Average Earnings Per Week

The average weekly earnings in Wood County, Texas, amount to approximately $800 to $1,000. This is based on the average full-time worker’s salary in the area. The weekly income can vary significantly based on the specific job and industry.

Source: ZipRecruiter – Wood County, TX Average Salary

Median Salary Range

The median household income in Wood County, Texas, is approximately $53,000 per year, based on recent census data. This is slightly lower than the state median income of around $64,000 for Texas, and notably lower than the national median income of about $70,000 per year.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Most Popular Jobs/Careers

The most popular jobs in Wood County, Texas, are primarily in the sectors of retail, education, and healthcare. Positions in retail sales, teaching, and nursing are some of the most common. Additionally, jobs in construction and manufacturing also make up a significant portion of the local workforce.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics – Texas Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics

Highest Paid Jobs Popular to the Area

The highest-paying jobs in Wood County, Texas, are typically in the fields of healthcare, management, and skilled trades. Surgeons, doctors, and dentists are among the top earners, followed by high-level management roles in businesses and government. Skilled trades such as electricians and plumbers also earn competitive wages compared to other sectors.

Source: ZipRecruiter – Wood County, TX Salary Estimates

Income Comparison: Wood County vs. Texas vs. National Average

When comparing Wood County’s income statistics with Texas and national averages, it is evident that Wood County has lower average income levels. The average annual salary in Wood County is around $41,000, which is significantly lower than Texas’ state average of $64,000 and the national average of approximately $70,000 per year. This disparity is largely due to the rural economy and lower cost of living in the area.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County Demographics

Sources

Taxes in Wood County, Texas

Property Taxes

The average effective property tax rate in Wood County, Texas, is approximately 1.8%. This is higher than the national average, which is about 1.1%, but comparable to other areas in Texas. For example, if you own a home valued at $200,000 in Wood County, your annual property tax bill would be around $3,600.

Source: Tax-Rates.org – Wood County Property Tax

Sales Taxes

The sales tax rate in Wood County, Texas, is 8.25%. This includes the 6.25% state sales tax and a 2% local sales tax. The local tax rate is consistent across the county, which is typical for most areas in Texas.

Source: SalesTaxHandbook – Wood County Sales Tax Rate

Income Taxes

Texas does not have a state income tax, which is a significant advantage for residents of Wood County. As a result, individuals and businesses do not pay state income taxes on their earnings. However, federal income taxes still apply.

Source: Texas Comptroller – Income Tax Information

Utility Taxes

Utility taxes in Wood County are not separately specified, but utility rates are subject to the state’s general sales tax. This includes services such as electricity, natural gas, water, and telecommunications. The state sales tax rate of 6.25% is applied to these services, with localities potentially adding up to 2% on top of this.

Source: Texas Comptroller – Utility Tax Information

Hotel Occupancy Tax

The hotel occupancy tax rate in Wood County is 6%, which is the standard rate for Texas. This tax is applied to the cost of lodging in hotels, motels, or other short-term accommodations for less than 30 days.

Source: Texas Comptroller – Hotel Occupancy Tax

Entertainment Taxes

Wood County does not have a specific entertainment tax, though entertainment-related goods and services are subject to the state’s general sales tax of 6.25%, with the possibility of local taxes up to 2%. This can include tickets for live performances, amusement park admissions, and similar activities.

Source: Texas Comptroller – Sales Tax Information

Tax Payment Schedule

Property taxes in Wood County are typically due on January 31st of each year, with penalties accruing after that date if taxes remain unpaid. Most tax payments are accepted online, by mail, or in person at the county tax office.

Source: Wood County Tax Assessor-Collector

Penalties for Late Payment

If property taxes in Wood County are not paid by February 1st, a 7% penalty is added to the tax due. This penalty increases over time, with an additional 2% penalty added on July 1st and 2% more added each subsequent month until the tax is paid. Interest also accrues at an annual rate of 1% per month on the unpaid balance.

Source: Wood County Tax Assessor-Collector

Where to Pay

Property taxes in Wood County can be paid online, by mail, or in person. The Wood County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office provides an online payment portal for convenience. Additionally, taxes can be paid at the office during business hours or by sending a check to the office’s mailing address.

Source: Wood County Tax Assessor-Collector

Contact Information

If you have any questions about taxes in Wood County, you can contact the Wood County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office at:

Sources

Is Wood County, Texas a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities

Wood County, Texas, offers a variety of events and activities that may appeal to singles. The area hosts community events such as the Wood County Fair and other festivals, where residents can enjoy food, music, and local culture. Additionally, there are local theaters and live music venues that regularly host performances and concerts, providing opportunities for singles to meet new people and enjoy social activities. For more details, check out the Wood County Community Events page.

Gyms

For fitness enthusiasts, Wood County offers a few gyms and fitness centers. While the area is more rural, there are local fitness facilities available for those looking to stay in shape. You can find gyms by searching through Yahoo’s Gym Search to locate the closest options. Popular gyms often include basic facilities like fitness classes, personal training, and standard workout equipment.

Housing

Housing in Wood County, Texas, is generally affordable. For singles looking for rental properties, one-bedroom apartments in cities like Mineola or Quitman typically rent for $700 to $1,100 per month. These prices are lower than national averages, making it more affordable to live alone. For more rental options in the area, visit Rent.com – Wood County Rentals to browse available listings and find housing that fits your budget and needs.

Percentage of Single Residents

As of the latest U.S. Census data, approximately 30% of the population in Wood County, Texas, is unmarried, which is slightly lower than the national average of around 35%. This statistic indicates that there are a fair number of singles in the area, though it is less than in more urbanized regions. For a more detailed breakdown of Wood County’s demographics, visit the U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County for full statistics on marital status and other demographics.

Compare to State and National Averages

Compared to the state of Texas, where approximately 32% of residents are single, Wood County’s 30% is slightly lower. The national average for singles is around 35%, which is higher than both Texas and Wood County. The difference can likely be attributed to Wood County’s more rural nature, which tends to have a slightly older population and lower percentages of young adults, who typically represent a higher proportion of singles.

Sources

Is Wood County, Texas Good for Families?

Wood County, Texas, can be a good place for families, particularly for those who are looking for a quieter, more rural lifestyle. The area offers affordable housing, low crime rates, and a variety of recreational options. The cost of living, including housing and groceries, is lower than the national average, which makes it an attractive option for families on a budget. The crime rate is relatively low compared to larger urban areas, and the weather is generally mild, with warm summers and mild winters. Employment opportunities are available in sectors like healthcare, education, and agriculture, though job prospects may not be as abundant as in metropolitan areas.

Parks and Family Activities

Wood County offers several parks and outdoor recreational activities perfect for families. The Wood County Parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. Popular spots like Lake Fork Park and Quitman City Park offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. Families can also enjoy local festivals and community events throughout the year. For more family events, check out the Wood County Community Events page.

Restaurants

Wood County has a range of dining options for families to enjoy. For Italian food, try searching for options in the area using this Bing Map search for Italian Restaurants in Wood County. If you’re craving Mexican food, you can check out Mexican Restaurants in Wood County. For a classic Texas BBQ experience, check out BBQ Restaurants in Wood County. There are also great family-friendly American dining options in the area, which you can find using this Bing Map search for American Restaurants in Wood County.

Housing

Wood County offers affordable housing options, particularly for families looking to purchase a home. The median home price in the area is around $180,000, making it more affordable than many urban areas. Families can find homes with larger yards and more space for a reasonable price. If you’re looking to purchase a home in Wood County, check out Realtor.com – Homes for Sale in Wood County for listings and property details.

Percentage of Family Residents

Approximately 70% of the residents in Wood County are married or live in family households, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This is higher than the national average of about 60%, indicating that the area is very family-oriented. This percentage reflects the community’s focus on family values and a supportive environment for raising children. For more detailed demographic information, visit the U.S. Census Bureau – Wood County.

Compare to State and National Averages

In comparison to the state of Texas, where approximately 66% of residents are married, Wood County’s 70% is slightly higher. The national average for family households is around 60%, which makes Wood County a more family-focused location than many parts of the country. This higher percentage reflects the area’s rural nature, which typically attracts families looking for a quieter lifestyle with more space.

Sources

How are the schools in Wood County, Texas?

Wood County, Texas, offers a range of public and private schools serving children from Pre-K through high school. The school district funding varies, with some districts receiving higher per-student funding due to local property taxes, which can lead to disparities in resources between districts. The overall school performance in the county is generally above average, with many schools focusing on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and community involvement. For families with children, Wood County schools can offer a supportive environment, but it’s important to note that the funding levels and test scores can vary depending on the specific district.

Pre-K Schools

Pre-K programs are available in Wood County through the public school system. Many districts offer Pre-Kindergarten programs for children aged 3 to 4. One of the prominent schools offering Pre-K is Wood ISD Pre-K Program, which aims to provide early childhood education to prepare children for kindergarten. These programs are designed to support social, emotional, and academic growth at an early age.

Kindergarten Schools

Kindergarten in Wood County is available in several school districts, where children start their formal education. The Wood ISD Kindergarten Program is known for its focus on foundational literacy and numeracy skills. Additionally, other districts like Alba-Golden ISD and Mineola ISD offer Kindergarten programs that follow state curriculum guidelines to ensure children are well-prepared for elementary school.

Elementary Schools

Wood County is home to several elementary schools, with each district offering educational programs for children in grades 1 through 5. Notable elementary schools in the area include Wood ISD Elementary School, which serves students with a strong focus on literacy, STEM, and character development. Another example is Mineola Elementary School, known for its academic excellence and community involvement. Alba-Golden Elementary School also provides comprehensive educational programs to prepare young learners for middle school.

Middle Schools

Middle schools in Wood County cater to students in grades 6 to 8. Notable schools include Wood ISD Middle School, which offers a strong curriculum in core subjects along with arts and athletics programs. Another excellent option is Mineola Middle School, which focuses on preparing students for high school with advanced courses and extracurricular activities. Alba-Golden Middle School is also well-regarded for its academic offerings and personalized attention to students.

High Schools

High schools in Wood County provide a comprehensive education with a range of extracurricular activities, sports teams, and academic programs. Wood High School is one of the county’s leading schools, offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors programs, and strong extracurricular opportunities, including sports and the arts. Mineola High School is another top option, known for its commitment to academic excellence and preparing students for post-secondary education or the workforce. Alba-Golden High School provides high-quality education and a variety of programs designed to engage students in their interests.

Colleges & Universities

While Wood County does not have a major four-year university, students looking to pursue higher education can attend institutions nearby. The University of Texas at Tyler is located within a short drive from Wood County and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. For more local community college options, students can attend Trinity Valley Community College in nearby Athens, which provides a variety of associate degree programs and vocational certifications.

Churches in Wood County, Texas

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Wood County, Texas

Wood County, Texas, offers an ideal combination of natural beauty, affordable living, and a welcoming community, making it a fantastic place to call home. With its serene lakes, lush forests, and picturesque landscapes, the area provides an abundance of outdoor activities, from fishing and boating to hiking and exploring nature. The low cost of living, especially in terms of housing, allows for a more spacious and relaxed lifestyle compared to the high costs of urban living. Families, singles, and retirees alike can find comfort in this close-knit community, where a slower pace of life meets the conveniences of modern amenities.

What truly sets Wood County apart is its strong sense of community. Whether you’re attending a local event, dining at a family-owned restaurant, or enjoying the numerous recreational activities, you’ll quickly feel like part of something bigger. The safe, welcoming environment, coupled with the affordability and natural beauty, makes Wood County a place where you can thrive. If you’re looking for a place that offers peace of mind, a rich sense of community, and the opportunity to live comfortably, Wood County is a perfect choice.