Cost of Living in Galveston County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Galveston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Galveston County ranks #3,086 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 2%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Galveston County, Texas
Galveston costs more, incomes bigger
Galveston County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.1% slightly exceeds Texas's state average of 18.1%, though the county's higher median income of $85,348 provides cushion. Median rent of $1,360 per month significantly outpaces the state average of $963, reflecting the premium coastal location and stronger regional economy.
Higher costs offset by stronger incomes
Galveston ranks as a higher-cost Texas county, but its above-average household income of $85,348—well above the state and national median—makes housing more manageable for many residents. The tradeoff: you pay more upfront but earn more to cover it.
Priciest rent among these eight counties
Galveston's $1,360 monthly rent far exceeds all neighboring counties in this cohort, including Freestone ($844), Gaines ($788), and even Gillespie ($1,331). Median home values of $284,900 similarly rank among the highest, positioning Galveston as the premium option for those seeking coastal access and stronger job markets.
Higher income absorbs higher costs
Renters in Galveston spend 19.1% of their $85,348 income on housing, while homeowners commit 21.7% to a median monthly cost of $1,538. The county's robust income levels help offset these elevated costs, though homebuying here demands substantially deeper pockets than rural alternatives.
Relocate if income and job access matter
Galveston makes sense for higher-earning households seeking coastal living, job market access, and urban amenities, not lowest housing costs. If you're earning well and prioritize proximity to Houston's economy and Gulf access over pure affordability, Galveston's premium prices buy you valuable location.
Cost of Living Advisory: Galveston County
Affordability Verdict
Galveston County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,360/month representing approximately 19.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 31.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,360/month rent versus $1,538/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $178/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $54,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $65,914/year. With a median household income of $85,348, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Galveston County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Texas, Galveston County is less affordable than Hood County by roughly 4% ($1,360/mo vs $1,414/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Galveston County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,991
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.6%
of gross income
The median home in Galveston County may be a stretch
Median home value is $284,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,274 vs. your max of $1,991.
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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