Cost of Living in Caldwell County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Caldwell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Caldwell County ranks #3,134 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Caldwell County, Texas
Caldwell County exceeds national housing burden
Caldwell County renters spend 20.1% of income on rent, above both the national average of 18.1% and the Texas state average of 18.1%. With a median household income of $68,503 trailing the national average of $74,755, the extra housing cost burden hits resident wallets harder.
Among Texas's least affordable counties
Caldwell County ranks in the lower affordability tier statewide, with a 20.1% rent-to-income ratio and $1,145 median rent both exceeding state averages. The county's rapid growth and proximity to Austin have driven up housing costs faster than local incomes.
More expensive than Brown, Callahan, Camp
Caldwell's $1,145 rent exceeds Brown County ($887), Callahan County ($881), and Camp County ($774) by 29–48%, while its $215,600 median homes cost 50% more than Camp or Callahan. For budget-conscious movers, nearby counties offer significantly better value.
Rapid growth driving up housing costs
Renters pay $1,145 monthly while homeowners carry $962, with a median home value of $215,600 reflecting Caldwell's appeal to Austin-area commuters. On a $68,503 income, housing claims 20.1% for renters and 17% for owners, leaving tighter margins than slower-growing neighbors.
Caldwell for Austin commuters with budget
If you're relocating to the Austin metro area and prioritize proximity over affordability, Caldwell County offers newer growth and reasonable commute times. Test whether your household income can comfortably absorb the $1,145 monthly rent or $215,600 home prices while maintaining savings.
Cost of Living Advisory: Caldwell County
Affordability Verdict
Caldwell County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,145/month representing approximately 20.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Caldwell County is $1,145/month, while owner costs run $962/month. Owning saves approximately $183/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $45,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,229/year. With a median household income of $68,503, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Caldwell County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Caldwell County sits 4% less expensive than Smith County ($1,197/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Caldwell County
Rent Burden
20.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,598
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
The median home in Caldwell County may be a stretch
Median home value is $215,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,721 vs. your max of $1,598.
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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