Cost of Living in Erath County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Erath County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Erath County ranks #2,652 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Erath County, Texas
Erath housing costs stretch incomes
Renters in Erath County spend 20.8% of their income on housing while earning $65,351, roughly 13% below the national median of $74,755. This above-average rent burden strains incomes that are already below the national average.
Above Texas average affordability strain
Erath County's 20.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Texas's 18.1% state average, and its $1,134 monthly rent is 18% above the state median of $963. The county ranks among Texas's less affordable options despite rural location.
Highest rent in rural peer group
Erath County's $1,134 rent is the highest among rural neighbors, though its $251,900 median home value sits between lower-cost counties and Ellis County's premium. This suggests growing suburban pressure from nearby metro areas.
Owners bear steeper burden than renters
Renters spend $1,134/month while homeowners pay $973/month against the $65,351 income, consuming roughly 21% of household earnings. Renters face particular pressure in this county, while buyers achieve better proportional affordability.
Buyers outperform renters here
Erath County rewards homeownership with median values of $251,900—reasonable for the region—while rental costs strain most budgets. If you're considering this area, prioritize saving for a down payment to access the buyer's advantage.
Cost of Living Advisory: Erath County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Erath County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,134/month in gross rent, with 31.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Erath County is $1,134/month, while owner costs run $973/month. Owning saves approximately $161/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $45,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,700/year. With a median household income of $65,351, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Erath County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Jefferson County where rent averages $1,079/month, Erath County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Erath County
Rent Burden
20.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,525
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.9%
of gross income
The median home in Erath County may be a stretch
Median home value is $251,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,011 vs. your max of $1,525.
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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