Cost of Living in Houston County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Houston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Houston County ranks #2,598 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Houston County, Texas
Houston County's affordability advantage
At 19.2%, Houston County's rent-to-income ratio sits slightly above the national norm, meaning renters here spend a reasonable share of earnings on housing. With a median household income of $54,563—roughly 27% below the national average of $74,755—affordability remains modest but manageable compared to higher-wage regions.
Mid-pack in Texas housing costs
Houston County's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio places it slightly above Texas's state average of 18.1%, indicating housing pressure that's typical for rural Texas. The county's median rent of $873 runs 9% below the state average of $963, offering some relief in an otherwise tight market.
Competing with similar Texas counties
Compared to nearby Howard County (16.7% rent-to-income) and Hutchinson County (15.6%), Houston County faces higher housing burden despite lower absolute rents. Yet it's more affordable than Hunt County (20.3% ratio) and Irion County (21.2%), placing it in the middle tier of surrounding regions.
Where Houston County income goes
Renters pay $873 monthly while homeowners spend $722, creating a rare affordance: buying costs less than renting. With median household income at $54,563 annually, housing claims roughly 19% of income—a sustainable level that leaves room for other expenses.
Consider Houston County if you value balance
If you're relocating and prioritize lower housing costs without sacrificing homeownership potential, Houston County's $155,100 median home value and affordable monthly payments merit serious attention. Compare this stability against your current county's rent-to-income ratio and median home prices to see how much breathing room you'd gain.
Cost of Living Advisory: Houston County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Houston County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $873/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Houston County is $873/month, while owner costs run $722/month. Owning saves approximately $151/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,943/year. With a median household income of $54,563, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Houston County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Texas, Houston County is more affordable than Cass County by roughly 6% ($873/mo vs $821/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Houston County
Rent Burden
19.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,273
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Houston County
Median home value is $155,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,238 vs. your max of $1,273.
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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