Cost of Living in Edwards County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Edwards County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Edwards County ranks #2,551 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Edwards County, Texas
Edwards County faces affordability crisis
Renters in Edwards County spend 22.3% of their income on housing—one of the highest burdens in this analysis—while earning just $38,500 against the national median of $74,755. This represents one of the most strained housing situations among Texas rural counties.
Toughest housing burden in state
Edwards County's 22.3% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Texas's 18.1% state average, making it among the least affordable counties statewide. The combination of low incomes and fixed housing costs creates a genuine affordability crisis.
Lowest income, high burden
Edwards County's $38,500 median income is the lowest in this comparison, while its 22.3% housing burden is among the highest. Neighboring Duval ($50,081) and Donley ($56,648) counties offer significantly better income stability.
Rents consume critical income share
Renters pay $714/month and homeowners pay $517/month against just $38,500 annual income, consuming 22% of household earnings on housing alone. This leaves limited resources for food, healthcare, and transportation.
Consider relocation for better prospects
Edwards County offers genuinely cheap housing ($714 rent, $78,300 home values), but residents should explore whether relocating to higher-wage counties might improve overall financial security. This county works best for retirees with fixed incomes or remote workers earning outside the local economy.
Cost of Living Advisory: Edwards County
Affordability Verdict
Edwards County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $714/month representing approximately 22.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 16.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $714/month rent versus $517/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $197/month cheaper — a 28% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,157/year. With a median household income of $38,500, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 16.0% of renter households in Edwards County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Edwards County sits 7% less expensive than Archer County ($766/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Edwards County
Rent Burden
22.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$898
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Edwards County
Median home value is $78,300. Estimated monthly cost: $625 vs. your max of $898.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Edwards County, Texas?
What is the median rent in Edwards County?
Is Edwards County affordable?
How does Edwards County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Edwards County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Edwards County, Texas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Edwards County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.