Cost of Living in Bailey County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bailey County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bailey County ranks #925 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 29%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bailey County, Texas
Bailey County beats national affordability
Renters in Bailey County spend just 12.6% of their income on housing, well below the national average of around 30% and Texas's state average of 18.1%. This county offers some of the most affordable housing in the state, making it accessible for working families.
Among Texas's most affordable counties
Bailey County ranks in the bottom tier for rent-to-income ratios across Texas, competing with only a handful of counties for best affordability. With a median rent of just $744 per month, it undercuts the state average of $963 by over 22%.
Cheaper than surrounding counties
Bailey County's median rent of $744 is significantly lower than neighboring Parmer County and other South Plains counties. Its affordability advantage extends to ownership costs, with a median home value of $104,400 versus higher-priced rural alternatives nearby.
Housing takes modest bite here
With a median household income of $70,625, residents allocate just $744 monthly for rent or $605 for ownership costs. That leaves substantial income for other necessities compared to state averages where housing consumes nearly a fifth of earnings.
Ready to relocate affordably?
Bailey County offers rural Texas living with genuine affordability—rare in today's market. If you're seeking a place where housing won't drain your paycheck, compare these numbers with your current county and consider the South Plains lifestyle.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bailey County
Affordability Verdict
Bailey County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $744/month — about 12.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Bailey County is $744/month, while owner costs run $605/month. Owning saves approximately $139/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,929/year. With a median household income of $70,625, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Bailey County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Bailey County sits 6% less expensive than Kimble County ($795/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bailey County
Rent Burden
12.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,648
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bailey County
Median home value is $104,400. Estimated monthly cost: $833 vs. your max of $1,648.
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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