Cost of Living in Ellis County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ellis County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ellis County ranks #3,042 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ellis County, Texas
Ellis County: prosperity meets affordability
Renters in Ellis County spend 18.1% of their income on housing—matching Texas's state average—while earning $95,898, far exceeding the national median of $74,755. This high-income county achieves affordability through sheer earning power despite expensive rents and mortgages.
Highest income in entire comparison
Ellis County's median household income of $95,898 is the highest among these eight counties and 28% above Texas's typical earner. This wealth allows residents to absorb above-average housing costs while maintaining strong financial flexibility.
Premium pricing reflects prosperity
Ellis County's $1,449 rent and $306,400 median home value are the highest in this comparison, reflecting its proximity to Dallas's booming exurban market. The county offers suburban growth without core Dallas pricing, attracting affluent commuters.
High costs, but manageable burden
Renters spend $1,449/month and homeowners pay $1,608/month against the $95,898 income, consuming only 18% of household earnings. These are the largest absolute housing expenses in the comparison, yet the highest incomes make them proportionally manageable.
Affluent families seeking Dallas suburbs
Ellis County delivers suburban living, top-tier schools, and Dallas job access for households earning $100,000+. If you can afford $1,600+ monthly housing costs, Ellis offers prosperity and growth potential unmatched elsewhere in this comparison.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ellis County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Ellis County is affordable. The median rent is $1,449/month against a median household income of $95,898, putting rent at 18.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Ellis County pay $1,449/month on average, compared to $1,608/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 10%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $57,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $68,914/year. With a median household income of $95,898, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Ellis County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Midland County where rent averages $1,383/month, Ellis County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ellis County
Rent Burden
18.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,238
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.1%
of gross income
The median home in Ellis County may be a stretch
Median home value is $306,400. Estimated monthly cost: $2,446 vs. your max of $2,238.
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 Ellis County, Texas?
What is the median rent in Ellis County?
Is Ellis County affordable?
How does Ellis County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Ellis County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Ellis County, Texas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Ellis 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.