The size of Texas and the distribution of its population result in service delivery, economic, educational, transportation, communication, and health problems. Texas is the second largest state in the nation, is third largest in population, has a population growing at a faster rate than the national average, and is a primarily rural state--20% of the population is nonmetropolitan and lives on 80% of the land. Although rural communities are pictured as clean places where the value systems are something to be envied, the reality is different. Accident rates are higher in rural areas than urban areas. Rural living produces drug abuse, domestic violence, depression, and teenage pregnancy just as frequently as does urban living. In addition, rural Texans have less education, lower incomes, and higher death rates than urban Texans. Rounding out this gloomy picture are higher incidences of substandard housing, poor communication and transportation systems, and inadequate sewage and water systems in rural areas. The report presents statistics on the population, poverty, children, elderly, health status, mental health, alcoholism and drug abuse, environmental health, health and medical facilities and health manpower, federal health programs, agriculture, crime, education, energy, housing, and transportation. Maps and extensive references conclude the document. (BRR)