Denton County has been recognized as one of the healthiest counties in Texas, according to the 2023 County Health Rankings. This annual assessment, conducted by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, evaluates counties across the nation on a wide array of health metrics. Denton County’s impressive standings—second in health outcomes and fourth in health factors out of 254 Texas counties—underscore its residents’ high quality of life and the effectiveness of its public health strategies.
The rankings highlight Denton County’s strong performance across several key health indicators. Specifically, the county’s health outcomes ranking is a reflection of its success in ensuring residents experience long and healthy lives. This is evident in the metrics for length of life, where Denton County ranks second, indicating lower premature death rates compared to other counties. Quality of life measures, which assess the prevalence of diseases and poor health conditions, also place Denton County favorably, ranking third. These outcomes suggest that the residents of Denton County enjoy a higher standard of health and well-being.
In terms of health factors, which influence future health outcomes, Denton County’s fourth-place ranking is noteworthy. This category encompasses health behaviors, clinical care, social and economic factors, and the physical environment—areas where Denton excels but also faces challenges. The county shines in health behaviors and social and economic factors, ranking fourth and sixth respectively, indicating healthy lifestyle choices among residents and strong socio-economic support systems. However, the physical environment ranking at 90th reveals areas for improvement, particularly in addressing factors that can negatively impact health, such as air and water quality.
Denton County’s health behaviors stand out, especially in comparison to state and national averages. The county reports lower rates of adult obesity and sexually transmitted infections, alongside greater access to exercise opportunities. Educational attainment and economic stability are also higher in Denton County, with more residents completing high school and some college, coupled with lower rates of children living in poverty. These factors contribute significantly to the overall health and wellness of the community.
While celebrating its achievements, Denton County is reminded of the continuous effort required to maintain and enhance its public health initiatives. The 2023 County Health Rankings serve not only as a testament to the county’s health successes but also as a call to action to address the challenges identified, particularly in the physical environment. By focusing on comprehensive health strategies and community engagement, Denton County aims to sustain its position as a leading example of health and wellness in Texas, ensuring a healthier future for all its residents.
Visit CountyHealthRankings.org for detailed findings from the 2023 County Health Rankings for Denton County and counties nationwide. To learn more about DCPH, visit DentonCounty.gov/health.