Cost of Living in Nueces County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Nueces County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Nueces County ranks #3,143 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Nueces County, Texas
Nueces renters stretch further than nation
Nueces County renters spend 22.3% of income on housing, above the national norm. That's roughly 3 percentage points higher than the typical American household, signaling tighter affordability for renters in this coastal Texas county.
Among the pricier Texas counties
Nueces County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.3% ranks it among Texas's least affordable counties, well above the state average of 18.1%. Median rent here is $1,224 monthly—27% higher than Texas's median of $963.
Costlier than most Gulf Coast peers
Renters in Orange County next door pay just $1,018 monthly versus Nueces's $1,224, and face a lower 16.6% rent-to-income burden. Nueces sits in a tighter housing market relative to its immediate neighbors.
Housing claims over 1/5 of income
The median Nueces household earns $66,021 yearly but dedicates $14,688 annually to rent alone—22.3% of income. Homeowners fare slightly better, spending $1,170 monthly on ownership costs, though that still represents 21.2% of gross income.
Relocate for better housing balance?
If housing costs are squeezing your budget, Orange County and Parmer County both offer notably lower rent-to-income ratios around 17-18%. Exploring inland Texas alternatives could free up thousands annually while keeping you in the state.
Cost of Living Advisory: Nueces County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Nueces County is affordable. The median rent is $1,224/month against a median household income of $66,021, putting rent at 22.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,224/month rent versus $1,170/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $54/month cheaper — a 4% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $48,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $50,143/year. With a median household income of $66,021, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Nueces County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Bell County where rent averages $1,168/month, Nueces County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Nueces County
Rent Burden
22.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,540
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.3%
of gross income
The median home in Nueces County may be a stretch
Median home value is $194,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,554 vs. your max of $1,540.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Nueces County, Texas?
What is the median rent in Nueces County?
Is Nueces County affordable?
How does Nueces County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Nueces County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Nueces County, Texas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Nueces County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.