Cost of Living in Midland County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Midland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Midland County ranks #2,641 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Midland County, Texas
Midland's income makes housing affordable
Midland County's median household income of $93,984 is 26% above the national average, giving residents strong purchasing power despite housing costs that rank among Texas's highest. At 17.7% rent-to-income, Midland sits just below the state average of 18.1%, demonstrating how high incomes offset premium prices.
Highest incomes, highest prices
Midland ranks as Texas's most expensive housing market by absolute dollars, with median rents of $1,383 and home values of $293,000 fueled by oil and gas prosperity. Yet strong incomes make affordability ratios competitive with slower-growing counties, creating a uniquely balanced market.
West Texas income powerhouse
Midland's $93,984 median income dwarfs Mitchell County's $56,033 and McMullen's $45,833, while housing costs remain proportionally manageable. This income advantage reflects the region's energy sector dominance, setting Midland apart as a high-cost, high-opportunity market.
Premium prices, premium paychecks
Renters allocate 17.7% of income to $1,383 rent, while homeowners spend roughly 19% on $1,503 monthly ownership costs. The slight mortgage premium reflects newer or larger homes, yet both remain sustainable due to Midland's elevated income base.
For high earners seeking opportunity
Midland attracts professionals in energy, healthcare, and business services where six-figure incomes are common. If your earning potential aligns with the region's job market, housing affordability follows—but on a high-cost, high-income ladder.
Cost of Living Advisory: Midland County
Affordability Verdict
Midland County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,383/month representing approximately 17.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Midland County pay $1,383/month on average, compared to $1,503/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 8%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $55,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $64,414/year. With a median household income of $93,984, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Midland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Gillespie County where rent averages $1,331/month, Midland County is approximately 4% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Midland County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,193
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.2%
of gross income
The median home in Midland County may be a stretch
Median home value is $293,000. Estimated monthly cost: $2,339 vs. your max of $2,193.
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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