Cost of Living in McLennan County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McLennan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McLennan County ranks #3,133 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McLennan County, Texas
McLennan renters face elevated housing costs
McLennan County renters spend 20.8% of their income on housing—substantially above the Texas state average of 18.1%—while earning $63,888, slightly below the national median. The $1,106 median rent is the second-highest among profiled counties, creating measurable affordability pressure.
Below-average affordability for Texas
McLennan County's 20.8% rent-to-income ratio places it in the lower-affordability tier statewide, driven primarily by above-average rents relative to local incomes. The county's rental market is notably less affordable than the Texas average.
Premium rents, premium ownership costs
McLennan's $1,106 median rent is second only to Martin County ($1,175) among its peers, while the median income of $63,888 is mid-range for the region. Homeownership is equally pricey: the $1,121 monthly cost and $219,200 median home value represent the region's steepest ownership burdens.
McLennan's housing dominates household budgets
A typical McLennan renter earning $63,888 annually devotes roughly $1,327 to housing, consuming 25% of gross income and severely limiting savings capacity. Homeowners face an even tighter squeeze, with $1,121 monthly costs representing 21% of income—the highest ownership burden among all profiled counties.
McLennan's affordability challenges run deep
McLennan County presents one of the region's most challenging housing markets for both renters and buyers; expect to allocate 20%+ of your income to housing regardless of tenure. Compare McLennan's 20.8% rent ratio against Mason County (13.1%) or Madison County (14.9%) to see the substantial savings available in more affordable markets.
Cost of Living Advisory: McLennan County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in McLennan County is affordable. The median rent is $1,106/month against a median household income of $63,888, putting rent at 20.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in McLennan County pay $1,106/month on average, compared to $1,121/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 1%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,043/year. With a median household income of $63,888, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in McLennan County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
McLennan County sits 5% more expensive than Aransas County ($1,052/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McLennan County
Rent Burden
20.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,491
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.1%
of gross income
The median home in McLennan County may be a stretch
Median home value is $219,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,750 vs. your max of $1,491.
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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