Cost of Living in Austin County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Austin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Austin County ranks #2,580 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 18%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Austin County, Texas
Austin County attracts higher earners
Austin County's 17.5% rent-to-income ratio beats the national average despite higher housing costs, supported by median income of $75,994 (nearly matching the national $74,755). Renters spending $1,111 monthly on this income achieve better affordability than national norms, though homeowners face elevated mortgage payments.
Slightly below Texas average affordability
Austin County's 17.5% rent-to-income ratio sits marginally below Texas's 18.1% state average, offering renters competitive affordability within the state. At $1,111 monthly, Austin's median rent is $148 above the state average of $963, but stronger income levels offset the cost difference.
Higher values, higher income market
Austin County's median home value of $270,900 far exceeds peer counties like Atascosa ($157,400) and Angelina ($149,800), reflecting growth pressure from proximity to Houston. Its $75,994 median income matches this premium market, attracting professionals willing to pay for proximity to urban employment.
Homeownership slightly outpaces renting
Austin renters spend $1,111 monthly (17.5% of income), while homeowners with mortgages spend $1,123 (17.6% of income)—nearly identical percentages despite the $12 monthly difference. The $270,900 median home value reflects Austin's position as a growth county attracting investment and higher-income households.
Austin County for Houston-area proximity
Austin County suits professionals relocating to Houston's orbit: $75,994 median income and 17.5% rent-to-income ratio offer solid affordability for the region's higher-cost market. Though median home values reach $270,900, both renting and buying consume comparable shares of income, giving relocators flexibility in choosing their path.
Cost of Living Advisory: Austin County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Austin County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,111/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,111/month rent versus $1,123/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $12/month cheaper — a 1% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,129/year. With a median household income of $75,994, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Austin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Austin County sits 5% more expensive than Angelina County ($1,056/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Austin County
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,773
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.7%
of gross income
The median home in Austin County may be a stretch
Median home value is $270,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,163 vs. your max of $1,773.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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