Size and Scale

Harris County Is One of the Largest Counties in the U.S.

Harris County covers about 1,778 square miles and has grown to be one of the most populous counties in the United States.

Harris County History & Culture

By 1930 Harris County surpassed Dallas County to become Texas's most populous county. By 1960, it had more than one million residents. By 2014, the county had over 4.4 million people. Today it ranks among the top handful of most populous counties in the entire country.

The county is home to dozens of incorporated cities in addition to Houston, including Pasadena, Baytown, Pearland, Missouri City, and many smaller communities. Large stretches are unincorporated. The scale of the county means long commutes and wide variation in services depending on where you live.

Source to confirm: Texas State Historical Association – Harris County

More Harris County notes

Appraisal District

Who Sets Your Property Value in Harris County

The Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD) sets the taxable value of every property in the county each year.

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Property Tax Exemption

Homestead Exemption Can Cut Your Tax Bill in Harris County

Homeowners who live in their Harris County home as their primary residence can get a significant cut in their property tax bill through the homestead exemption.

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Property Tax Protest

You Can Fight Your Appraisal in Harris County

Harris County property owners have the right to protest their appraised value every year — and many do.

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Municipal Utility Districts

What a MUD Is — and Why It Matters in Harris County

Harris County has hundreds of Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) that provide water, sewer, and drainage to homes outside city limits.

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