Cost of Living in Lee County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lee County ranks #2,322 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lee County, Texas
Lee County rents strain household budgets
Lee County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.1% sits above both national and Texas state averages, indicating tighter housing affordability for renters. At $1,050 monthly with a median household income of $66,000, renters here dedicate nearly one-fifth of earnings to housing—leaving less flexibility for other expenses.
Above-average rental costs in Texas
Lee County's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Texas's state average of 18.1%, and its $1,050 median rent runs 9% above the state average of $963. This positions Lee County among Texas's pricier rental markets, reflecting regional housing demand and limited supply.
The region's priciest rental market
Lee County's $1,050 rent is notably higher than all comparable counties here—Knox ($661), Lamar ($897), Lamb ($900), Leon ($798), Lavaca ($879)—reflecting its status as an expensive regional outlier. However, its $247,500 median home value also tops the group, suggesting a wealthier, more developed market.
Ownership offers better affordability
Lee County renters earning $66,000 allocate 19.1% of income ($1,050) to housing, but owners spend only 15.5% ($854 monthly) on mortgages for $247,500 homes. This 3.6-percentage-point spread suggests that buying offers substantially better financial outcomes than renting in this market.
Lee County: buy to save money
If you're considering Lee County, the numbers favor homeownership strongly—owners spend significantly less as a percentage of income than renters. Weigh its $247,500 median home value and $1,050 rents against more affordable neighbors like Leon County ($798) before committing to the move.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lee County
Affordability Verdict
Lee County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,050/month representing approximately 19.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 31.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lee County pay $1,050/month on average, compared to $854/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 19%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,600/year. With a median household income of $66,000, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Lee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Bandera County where rent averages $998/month, Lee County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lee County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,540
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.5%
of gross income
The median home in Lee County may be a stretch
Median home value is $247,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,976 vs. your max of $1,540.
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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