Water Supply

Water Is Scarce in Ector County — Know Your Source Before You Buy

Ector County averages only about 13–14 inches of rain per year; properties outside city water service may depend on wells or trucked water.

Ector County Home & Property

Ector County is one of the drier parts of Texas. Yearly rainfall averages around 13–14 inches. The city of Odessa has a public water system that serves most city residents. But rural properties and homes in areas outside city service may rely on private wells or water you have to buy and haul in.

If you are buying rural property, ask about the water source right away. Find out if a well exists or if one is planned. The Texas Water Development Board, known as the TWDB, tracks water planning for the region. Oil and gas activity in the area can also affect groundwater quality in some places. Knowing your water source before you buy is very important.

Source to confirm: Texas Water Development Board – Ector County Water Planning

More Ector County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Ector County

The appraisal district sets your property value; the tax assessor-collector handles payments — they are two separate offices.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Cuts Your School Tax Bill

Texas law gives homeowners a $140,000 exemption from the school district portion of their property tax if the home is their primary residence.

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Senior & Disabled Exemption

Extra Tax Break for Homeowners 65 or Older

Homeowners who are 65 or older or who are disabled get an additional $60,000 school district exemption and may qualify for a tax freeze.

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Ag Valuation

Agricultural Land Can Be Taxed on Productivity, Not Market Value

Landowners who use their Ector County property for farming or ranching can apply to have it taxed on what it produces, not what it would sell for.

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