Major Industry

A large nuclear power plant operates in this county

The South Texas Project nuclear power plant, about 12 miles south of Bay City, is one of the largest nuclear stations in the country and a major local employer.

Matagorda County History & Culture

The South Texas Project Electric Generating Station sits on about 12,200 acres in southwest Matagorda County. Its two reactors came online in 1988 and 1989. Together they produce about 2,560 megawatts of electricity. The plant sends power to multiple Texas cities.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) oversees the plant. It is one of the biggest employers in the county and adds to the local tax base.

If you are moving to the area, emergency planning information is available through the NRC and the plant's operator.

Source to confirm: NRC — South Texas Project, Unit 1

More Matagorda County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two separate offices handle property taxes here

Matagorda County has two separate offices for property taxes — one sets values, and one collects the bills.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead exemption cuts your school tax bill

Texas law requires school districts to exempt a set amount of your home's value from school taxes — but you must file to get it.

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Coastal Windstorm Insurance

Coastal homes may need windstorm insurance through the state

Matagorda County is one of 14 Texas coastal counties where private windstorm insurance can be hard to get, so many homeowners use the state's backup insurer instead.

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Flood Maps

Flood maps for this county were recently revised

FEMA released revised preliminary flood maps for Matagorda County in early 2025, which could change flood insurance requirements for some properties.

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