Geography

Galveston County Is a Mix of Island, Bay, and Mainland

Galveston County includes Galveston Island, mainland cities along Interstate 45, and the large waters of Galveston Bay.

The county covers about 378 square miles of land, plus the waters of Galveston Bay — nearly 875 square miles in all. Galveston Island is a narrow barrier island. It is about 28 miles long and 3 miles wide. Galveston Bay separates it from the mainland. Most of the island sits near sea level. The highest elevations top out around 35 feet.

The mainland part of the county is mostly suburban. Cities there include League City, Dickinson, and Texas City. The Bolivar Peninsula is also in the county. You reach it from the island by ferry. Where you live in the county matters a lot. It affects flood risk, commute routes, insurance costs, and home values.

Source to confirm: TSHA Handbook of Texas — Galveston County

More Galveston County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Galveston County

The appraisal district sets your property value; the tax office collects what you owe — and they are two separate offices.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Tax Bill in Galveston County

If you own and live in your home, you can apply for a homestead exemption that reduces how much of your property value gets taxed.

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MUD / PID / Special Districts

Galveston County Has Dozens of Special Tax Districts

Many newer neighborhoods in the county sit inside a Municipal Utility District or other special district that adds an extra layer of taxes to your bill.

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Windstorm Insurance

Most Galveston County Homes Need a Separate Windstorm Policy

Private home insurance in Galveston County usually does not cover hurricane wind damage, so many owners must buy a separate policy from TWIA.

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