Cost of Living in Hays County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hays County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hays County, Texas
Hays rents outpace national affordability
Hays County renters spend 19.8% of income on rent, well above the national sweet spot of roughly 15-16%. While median income here ($85,827) exceeds the national median ($74,755), housing costs are rising faster than paychecks in this fast-growing Austin suburb.
Above-average rent burden statewide
Hays ranks above Texas's 18.1% state average rent-to-income ratio, putting it in the less affordable half of Texas counties. The $1,417 median rent here is 47% higher than the state median of $963, reflecting Hays's booming population and proximity to tech jobs.
Pricier than nearby Hill and Blanco
Hays renters pay $1,417 monthly—about $490 more than Hill County ($929) and significantly more than most surrounding rural counties. Only Hood County ($1,414) comes close, both reflecting the Austin metro's expanding footprint into the Hill Country.
Housing takes a $3,204 monthly bite
Between median rent ($1,417) and median owner costs ($1,787), Hays households dedicate roughly 38% of income to housing combined. Renters alone allocate nearly 20% of the $85,827 median income just to keep a roof overhead.
Austin's growth comes with a cost
If you're considering Hays for that tech job or Hill Country lifestyle, budget $1,417+ for rent or expect a $371,400 median home price. Compare that against smaller counties like Hockley ($813 rent) or Hemphill ($946 rent) if affordability is your priority.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hays County
Rent Burden
19.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,003
per month
Owner Cost Burden
25.0%
of gross income
The median home in Hays County may be a stretch
Median home value is $371,400. Estimated monthly cost: $2,965 vs. your max of $2,003.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.