Cost of Living in Bastrop County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bastrop County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bastrop County ranks #3,062 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bastrop County, Texas
Bastrop housing stretches budgets tight
Bastrop County renters spend 19.5% of income on housing, exceeding Texas's state average of 18.1% and approaching national stress levels. Despite the highest median income in this group at $82,730, residents still feel affordability pinch more than neighboring counties.
Above-average rent burden in Texas
Bastrop County ranks in the upper third of Texas counties for rent-to-income ratios, meaning housing costs here press harder on wallets. The county's proximity to Austin and growing popularity have driven costs upward in recent years.
Pricier than rural alternatives nearby
Bastrop's median rent of $1,342 significantly exceeds surrounding counties like Lee and Fayette, reflecting its Austin metro appeal. Home values averaging $269,500 position it between rural Texas and major metropolitan pricing.
Highest earners, highest costs here
Bastrop's median household income of $82,730 is offset by rents of $1,342 and ownership costs of $1,164 monthly. Nearly one-fifth of income goes to housing, a burden that grows sharper for below-median earners in the county.
Austin proximity comes with a price
Bastrop offers Austin bedroom community appeal with better affordability than the capital itself—but worse than truly rural alternatives. If you're seeking Hill Country access with urban amenities, the trade-offs here warrant serious comparison with neighboring counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bastrop County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Bastrop County is affordable. The median rent is $1,342/month against a median household income of $82,730, putting rent at 19.5% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,342/month rent versus $1,164/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $178/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $53,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $49,886/year. With a median household income of $82,730, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Bastrop County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Bexar County where rent averages $1,290/month, Bastrop County is approximately 4% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bastrop County
Rent Burden
19.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,930
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
The median home in Bastrop County may be a stretch
Median home value is $269,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,152 vs. your max of $1,930.
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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