Cost of Living in Garza County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Garza County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Garza County ranks #1,941 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 38%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Garza County, Texas
Garza offers rock-bottom housing costs
Garza County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% hovers near Texas's state average of 18.1%, but the county stands out for rock-bottom absolute housing costs. Median rent of $797 and median owner cost of just $488 per month rank among the lowest across these eight counties, even as median income lags at $50,545.
Among Texas's most budget-friendly counties
Garza ranks in the affordability sweet spot for Texas, offering renters and owners alike some of the state's lowest absolute housing costs. The county's challenge is lower median income, but for those earning $50,000, these housing costs provide exceptional relief.
Lowest owner costs in the region
Garza's $488 median monthly owner cost is the lowest among all eight counties—less than half Galveston's $1,538 and a quarter of Gillespie's $1,033. Renters pay $797 per month, undercutting all neighbors except Gaines, positioning Garza as the ultimate cost-conscious choice for West Texas.
Affordability through sheer low costs
Garza renters spend 18.9% of their $50,545 income on $797 rent, while homeowners commit a remarkable 11.6% to $488 monthly costs. The county achieves affordability not through high incomes but through exceptionally low absolute housing costs—a rare advantage for budget-conscious households.
Perfect if you earn modest income
Garza County is your move if you're on a tight budget and can embrace rural West Texas living—your housing costs will be the lowest in this cohort. Renters and owners alike will find their paychecks stretched further here than in any other county profiled.
Cost of Living Advisory: Garza County
Affordability Verdict
Garza County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $797/month representing approximately 18.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 19.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $797/month rent versus $488/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $309/month cheaper — a 39% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $20,914/year. With a median household income of $50,545, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Garza County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Texas, Garza County is less affordable than Young County by roughly 6% ($797/mo vs $849/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Garza County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,179
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Garza County
Median home value is $79,300. Estimated monthly cost: $633 vs. your max of $1,179.
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 Garza County, Texas?
What is the median rent in Garza County?
Is Garza County affordable?
How does Garza County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Garza County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Garza County, Texas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Garza 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.