Cost of Living in Bowie County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bowie County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bowie County ranks #2,898 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bowie County, Texas
Bowie's rent burden edges into concern
Bowie County residents earning a median of $59,295—20% below the U.S. average—spend 19.6% of income on rent, exceeding Texas's 18.1% state average. This rent-heavy burden suggests tight budgets for working families in Northeast Texas.
Bowie ranks among Texas's least affordable
With a 19.6% rent-to-income ratio, Bowie County sits above the Texas average, placing it in the less-affordable half of the state's 254 counties. Low incomes combined with middling rents create a squeeze for renters here.
Bowie's costs outpace similar region counties
Bowie's $966 monthly rent exceeds nearby Morris and Cass counties, and its 19.6% rent-to-income ratio is higher than most East Texas peers. Combined with below-state-average incomes, Bowie residents face stiffer housing costs than regional neighbors.
Rent takes a bigger bite here
Bowie renters spend 19.6% of median income on rent, while homeowners spend roughly 16.8% on owner costs—an unusual reversal favoring ownership. Median home values of $161,300 suggest buying might offer relief from monthly rent burdens.
Renters, compare Bowie to rural alternatives
If you're considering Bowie County, its 19.6% rent-to-income ratio suggests exploring nearby counties or moving further east for better renter affordability. However, homebuyers may find value in the $161,300 median home price as an alternative to rising rents.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bowie County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Bowie County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $966/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $966/month rent versus $827/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $139/month cheaper — a 14% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,443/year. With a median household income of $59,295, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Bowie County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Bowie County sits 5% less expensive than Orange County ($1,018/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bowie County
Rent Burden
19.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,384
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Bowie County
Median home value is $161,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,288 vs. your max of $1,384.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Bowie County, Texas?
What is the median rent in Bowie County?
Is Bowie County affordable?
How does Bowie County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Bowie County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Bowie County, Texas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Bowie County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.