Cost of Living in Cameron County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Cameron County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Cameron County, Texas
Cameron County faces acute affordability stress
Cameron County renters spend 21.0% of income on rent, significantly above the national average of 18.1% and the Texas state average of 18.1%. With a median household income of just $51,334—$23,421 below the national average of $74,755—residents face the steepest housing-cost burden in this comparison.
Among Texas's most stressed housing markets
Cameron County ranks among the least affordable counties statewide, combining a high 21.0% rent-to-income ratio with the lowest median income ($51,334) of these eight counties. This Rio Grande Valley location faces genuine affordability challenges despite modest absolute rent costs.
Lowest incomes, highest cost burden
Cameron's $899 rent is reasonable by statewide standards, but the $51,334 median income—lowest in this sample—makes it the percentagewise most expensive for renters. Neighboring counties like Calhoun ($71,870 income) and Brown ($55,305) fare better despite similar or higher absolute rents.
Income constraints drive housing stress
Renters pay $899 monthly while homeowners carry $689, with median homes valued at just $120,000—the cheapest purchase prices in Texas. Yet on a $51,334 annual income, renters dedicate 21.0% of earnings to housing, leaving limited funds for other essentials.
Cameron County requires careful budgeting
If you're considering relocation to the Rio Grande Valley, Cameron County's low home prices ($120,000) appeal to buyers, but renters should carefully verify that the 21.0% rent-to-income ratio leaves adequate funds for your household needs. Compare your expected income against local $899 rents to ensure financial stability.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Cameron County
Rent Burden
21.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,198
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Cameron County
Median home value is $120,000. Estimated monthly cost: $958 vs. your max of $1,198.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.