Cost of Living in Hardin County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hardin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hardin County ranks #2,443 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hardin County, Texas
Hardin County stays below the danger zone
Hardin County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% falls below the Texas state average of 18.1% and well below the national average of roughly 30%. This Southeast Texas county maintains healthy housing affordability despite above-average home values.
Upper-middle tier affordability in Texas
Hardin County ranks solidly in the middle-to-upper range of Texas counties for affordability, with a 16.7% rent-to-income ratio. While not the cheapest, it balances reasonable housing costs with stronger home values and incomes.
Premium pricing for Southeast Texas
Hardin County's $1,011 median rent and $188,200 home values are higher than inland counties but typical for Southeast Texas near Houston's influence. This reflects the region's stronger economy and property values.
Higher income supports higher housing
With a median household income of $72,532, Hardin County residents spend 16.7% on rent or roughly 15.2% on mortgage payments. The higher incomes here support the elevated housing costs while maintaining affordability.
Hardin offers Southeast Texas access
If you're seeking proximity to Houston's job market without downtown prices, Hardin County delivers—median rent at $1,011 and homes around $188,000 with strong local incomes. Compare to Harris County to see the savings from moving further from the urban core.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hardin County
Affordability Verdict
Hardin County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,011/month representing approximately 16.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hardin County pay $1,011/month on average, compared to $919/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 9%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $40,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,386/year. With a median household income of $72,532, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Hardin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hardin County sits 6% more expensive than Montague County ($957/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hardin County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,692
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hardin County
Median home value is $188,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,502 vs. your max of $1,692.
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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