Cost of Living in Bell County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bell County ranks #3,119 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bell County, Texas
Bell County stretches housing budgets
Bell County renters spend 21.2% of income on housing, significantly above Texas's state average of 18.1% and approaching national crisis levels. With a median income of $66,051, residents allocate over $1,168 monthly just for rent.
Upper third for affordability burden
Bell County ranks among the more expensive Texas counties relative to local incomes, reflecting its position as a military and manufacturing hub. The county's role as home to Fort Hood drives demand and costs upward.
Pricier than rural alternatives
Bell County's median rent of $1,168 exceeds surrounding rural counties like Coryell and Milam by 20-30%. Home values of $221,100 reflect military-driven demand and proximity to Central Texas growth corridors.
Military presence drives costs up
Bell County's median income of $66,051 is stretched by rents of $1,168 and ownership costs of $1,262 monthly. Housing consumes over 21% of income, leaving constrained budgets for families without dual high incomes.
Military families weigh options carefully
Bell County's housing crisis reflects Fort Hood's gravitational pull on the local market. If you're military-connected or seeking affordable Central Texas living, compare these numbers against neighboring Coryell or McLennan counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bell County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Bell County is affordable. The median rent is $1,168/month against a median household income of $66,051, putting rent at 21.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Bell County is $1,168/month, while owner costs run $1,262/month. Renting saves approximately $94/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $54,086/year. With a median household income of $66,051, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Bell County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Nueces County where rent averages $1,224/month, Bell County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bell County
Rent Burden
21.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,541
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.9%
of gross income
The median home in Bell County may be a stretch
Median home value is $221,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,765 vs. your max of $1,541.
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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