Cost of Living in Carson County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Carson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Carson County ranks #1,678 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Carson County, Texas
Carson County beats national housing burden
At 13.2%, Carson County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national benchmark and even beats the typical Texan household's 18.1% housing cost burden. Residents here spend significantly less of their paychecks on rent than Americans overall, a rarity in today's housing market.
A rare affordable pocket in Texas
Carson County ranks among Texas's most affordable counties for renters, with a rent-to-income ratio nearly 5 percentage points lower than the state average. This positions the county as a genuine outlier in a state where housing affordability has been tightening across most metros.
Comparison: Carson vs. the Panhandle
Carson County's median rent of $933 runs slightly below the state average of $963, while neighboring Childress County pays $934—nearly identical. Yet Carson's stronger median household income of $84,583 (vs. Childress's $60,333) makes housing feel more affordable here.
Where Carson incomes go
Renters in Carson County dedicate roughly $933 monthly to rent from a median household income of $84,583, while homeowners pay $751 per month toward a median home value of $140,600. Both figures translate to manageable housing burdens, leaving more income for other expenses.
Consider Carson for stability
If you're weighing relocation options in the Texas Panhandle, Carson County offers one of the healthiest income-to-housing ratios in the region. Strong local wages paired with modest housing costs make it a smart choice for families seeking affordability without sacrificing economic opportunity.
Cost of Living Advisory: Carson County
Affordability Verdict
Carson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $933/month representing approximately 13.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 20.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Carson County pay $933/month on average, compared to $751/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 20%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,186/year. With a median household income of $84,583, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Carson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Texas, Carson County is more affordable than Callahan County by roughly 6% ($933/mo vs $881/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Carson County
Rent Burden
13.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,974
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Carson County
Median home value is $140,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,122 vs. your max of $1,974.
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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