Cost of Living in Bee County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bee County ranks #3,090 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 2%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bee County, Texas
Bee County faces affordability crisis
Bee County renters spend 22.0% of income on housing, the highest ratio in this group and well above Texas's state average of 18.1%. With a median income of $56,075, residents face genuine affordability stress despite modest nominal rents.
Worst affordability among these counties
Bee County ranks among the most unaffordable Texas counties when comparing rent to income, placing it in the upper crisis tier. The mismatch between local wages and housing costs creates measurable strain on household budgets.
Higher rents than surrounding areas
Bee County's median rent of $1,028 exceeds neighboring Live Oak and Nueces counties despite lower incomes overall. This pricing anomaly suggests limited supply or demand from outside workers driving costs upward.
Income-to-housing mismatch
Median household income of $56,075 means residents spend $1,028 on rent monthly—over 22% of earnings. This leaves roughly $3,600 monthly for all other expenses including utilities, food, transportation, and healthcare.
Think twice before relocating here
While Bee County offers Gulf Coast access and rural character, its affordability crisis makes it risky for budget-conscious relocators. Compare these numbers carefully with other South Texas options before making the move.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bee County
Affordability Verdict
Bee County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,028/month representing approximately 22.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Bee County is $1,028/month, while owner costs run $610/month. Owning saves approximately $418/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $41,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,143/year. With a median household income of $56,075, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Bee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Harrison County where rent averages $977/month, Bee County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bee County
Rent Burden
22.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,308
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bee County
Median home value is $102,800. Estimated monthly cost: $821 vs. your max of $1,308.
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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