Question 1

Is 78597 a safe area?

Accepted Answer

ZIP code 78597 in South Padre Island has a crime score of 25/100, which is above city averages — meaning reported incidents per 1,000 residents are elevated relative to most South Padre Island neighborhoods. This score is calculated from FBI Crime Data Explorer incident reports, normalized by population and weighted by crime severity. Prospective residents should review the Full Crime Report for 78597, check street-level crime mapping tools, and weigh this data alongside commute priorities, school needs, and affordability when making decisions. Crime scores are one input, not a complete picture of neighborhood livability.

Question 2

What are the best schools near 78597?

Accepted Answer

ZIP code 78597 has a school score of 67/100, based on NCES EdFacts proficiency data for nearby public schools. Schools in 78597 perform near state averages on math and reading assessments — neither significantly above nor below the South Padre Island district benchmark. For families with school-age children, the Full School Report for 78597 provides proficiency rates and enrollment data for each individual school. Scores reflect SY 2020-21 assessment data.

Question 3

What is the average home price in 78597?

Accepted Answer

The typical home value in 78597 is approximately $520K, based on recent Zillow Research ZHVI data. ZHVI reflects the 35th–65th percentile price range, not a simple median. This places 78597 below the metro median — buyers may find more value here than in higher-scoring ZIP codes, though the lower scores reflect trade-offs in crime and school quality. Median rent in 78597 is available in the Full Market Report. Prices fluctuate with market conditions; Zillow data reflects trailing sale prices, not current listing prices.

Question 4

Is 78597 a good place to live?

Accepted Answer

ZIP code 78597 has an overall NeighborScore of 42/100, which is below average for the South Padre Island metro. The score weights crime (40%), schools (35%), and relative property value (25%). A score below 60 typically reflects above-average crime rates, below-average school proficiency, or both — though the property value component may show strong relative value (more home per dollar). Reviewing the component scores and the Full Reports for crime, schools, and real estate separately will give a clearer picture than the composite alone.

— ZIP 78597

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