Cost of Living in Medina County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Medina County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Medina County ranks #2,775 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Medina County, Texas
Medina stays slightly below national norm
Medina County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% sits slightly below the state average of 18.1% and comfortably within the sustainable range, despite a median household income of $73,462 that's just 2% below the national average. At $1,091 per month, median rent is 13% above the state average, but higher incomes keep the burden manageable.
Middle of the pack in Texas
Medina County ranks as moderately affordable among Texas counties, with a median home value of $220,000 that reflects steady growth in the Hill Country region. The rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% puts it in the healthier half of Texas markets, with balanced housing demand and supply.
Hill Country affordability advantage
Compared to rapidly growing Blanco and Hays counties, Medina offers lower home values ($220,000 vs. $350,000+) while maintaining similar incomes and livability. Nearby Bexar County's sprawl drives higher prices, making Medina an attractive alternative for Austin-San Antonio commuters seeking affordability.
Balanced housing costs here
Renters spend about 17.8% of income on rent, while homeowners allocate roughly 16% to monthly ownership costs of $963. The two housing modes track closely in affordability, offering flexibility for both renters and buyers planning relocation.
Sweet spot for Hill Country living
Medina County appeals to families and remote workers seeking Hill Country character without the premium prices of nearby Blanco or Hays. Your income will stretch comfortably here, and proximity to Austin and San Antonio jobs keeps career options open.
Cost of Living Advisory: Medina County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Medina County is affordable. The median rent is $1,091/month against a median household income of $73,462, putting rent at 17.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,091/month rent versus $963/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $128/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,271/year. With a median household income of $73,462, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Medina County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Navarro County where rent averages $1,039/month, Medina County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Medina County
Rent Burden
17.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,714
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.7%
of gross income
The median home in Medina County may be a stretch
Median home value is $220,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,756 vs. your max of $1,714.
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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