Cost of Living in Dawson County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dawson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dawson County ranks #2,985 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 5%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dawson County, Texas
Dawson beats national affordability
Dawson County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% sits just below the national norm and well below the national median income of $74,755, making this West Texas county genuinely affordable. Renters here spend less than one-fifth of household income on housing—a rare advantage in today's market.
Texas's affordable exceptions
Dawson County ranks among Texas's most affordable counties with an 18.8% rent-to-income ratio, nearly matching the state average of 18.1%. Its median rent of $873 per month undercuts the state median of $963, offering relief for working-class families.
West Texas affordability stronghold
Dawson County's $873 median rent compares favorably to nearby Deaf Smith County ($919) and significantly undercuts larger metros like Dallas and Denton. With a median income of $55,789, Dawson residents enjoy some of the region's lowest housing burdens despite earning less than state averages.
Affordable rents, modest incomes
Renters in Dawson County pay $873 monthly while homeowners spend $624—both figures among Texas's lowest. The county's $55,789 median income means households dedicate less than 19% of earnings to housing, one of the state's better ratios.
Dawson offers rare affordability
If cost of living drives your relocation decision, Dawson County delivers: rent under $900 and an 18.8% affordability ratio that rivals statewide averages. Trade big-city job markets for genuine housing security and lower household expenses.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dawson County
Affordability Verdict
Dawson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $873/month representing approximately 18.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $873/month rent versus $624/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $249/month cheaper — a 29% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,743/year. With a median household income of $55,789, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Dawson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Cass County where rent averages $821/month, Dawson County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dawson County
Rent Burden
18.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,302
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dawson County
Median home value is $90,800. Estimated monthly cost: $725 vs. your max of $1,302.
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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