A solid choice for building in South Texas. Minimal restrictions, low flood risk, and very affordable land.
📊70/100AcreScore
💰$8KLand $/acre
🏠$105KHome Value
👥40,838Population
📈+-1.5%Growth (10yr)
🌊10%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Hot Humid SubtropicalClimateZone 2A
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Texas has no state building code — regulations are county-level. Jim Wells County has no formal zoning ordinance, meaning most rural land can be used for residential construction including barndominiums without special permits beyond standard building codes.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Unzoned
None
✅ Yes
Jim Wells County has no formal zoning ordinance. Standard building permits still required. Contact the county building department for specifics.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Tennessee allows owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Licensed subs needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Jim Wells County Building Department
Alice, TX
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Moderate flood risk. 10% of county land is in FEMA flood zones. Most buildable parcels are outside hazard areas, but always verify your specific site.
10%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Affordable land market. At roughly $8,000 per acre, Jim Wells County offers good value for builders looking for rural acreage.
$8K
Median $/acre
$105K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.82%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Jim Wells County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Jim Wells County sits in the heart of South Texas. Corpus Christi is 45 min away. No state income tax means your dollar stretches further here than in most states.
💰
No State Income Tax
Texas has no state income tax. Combined with below-average property taxes at 1.82%, your money works harder here.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $8,000/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🔨
Build Freedom
No formal zoning means you can build your barndominium, shop, or homestead without jumping through bureaucratic hoops.
At a Glance
Population40,838
10-Year Growth-1.5%
County SeatAlice
State Income TaxNone
ClimateHot Humid Subtropical (Zone 2A)
How Close Is Everything?
Corpus Christi45 min
CRP50 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Jim Wells County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Alice. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Jim Wells County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Jim Wells County?
Yes. Jim Wells County has no formal zoning ordinance. You'll still need standard building permits, but barndominiums are generally permitted on rural land. Check with the county building department for specific requirements.
How much does land cost in Jim Wells County?
Median price is approximately $8,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Jim Wells County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Jim Wells County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Jim Wells County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.82%. Texas has no state income tax, but property tax rates may be higher than the national average. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Jim Wells County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Texas, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.