Cost of Living in Denton County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Denton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Denton County ranks #3,114 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Denton County, Texas
Denton's prosperity commands housing premium
Denton County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.2% sits just above the national norm, but its $108,185 median household income—45% higher than the national average—tells the full story. Residents here earn enough to absorb housing costs that would strain typical American households.
Denton: Texas's wealth and growth engine
Denton County's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio matches the Texas state average of 18.1%, a feat accomplished through significantly above-average incomes of $108,185. The county's median rent of $1,642 reflects its status as one of Texas's fastest-growing, highest-earning regions.
Premium pricing for premium incomes
Denton County's median rent of $1,642 and home value of $403,400 far exceed neighboring Dallas County ($1,469 rent, $277,900 homes), reflecting its wealthier demographic. Yet the county's 18.2% affordability ratio rivals more affordable rural counties because Denton incomes scale upward.
High earners, high housing costs
Denton households allocate $1,642 monthly for rent or $2,128 for mortgages on a median income of $108,185. Despite steep absolute housing costs, the county's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio proves sustainable for its higher-earning workforce.
Denton for career growth seekers
Relocate to Denton County if your job offer or career prospects justify premium housing costs—rent at $1,642 remains manageable at 18.2% of typical incomes here. The county's median income of $108,185 positions it as Texas's wealth center, ideal for professionals commanding top salaries.
Cost of Living Advisory: Denton County
Affordability Verdict
Denton County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,642/month representing approximately 18.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Denton County pay $1,642/month on average, compared to $2,128/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 23%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $65,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $91,200/year. With a median household income of $108,185, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Denton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Denton County sits 4% more expensive than Kendall County ($1,576/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Denton County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,524
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.6%
of gross income
The median home in Denton County may be a stretch
Median home value is $403,400. Estimated monthly cost: $3,220 vs. your max of $2,524.
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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