Cost of Living in Polk County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Polk County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Polk County ranks #2,974 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 5%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Polk County, Texas
Polk renters stretch further for housing
Polk County's 20.5% rent-to-income ratio sits above both the Texas average of 18.1% and reflects tighter affordability for renters. With median income at $59,066—significantly below the national median of $74,755—renters here dedicate more of their earnings to the $1,009 monthly rent.
Mid-range affordability among Texas counties
Polk County's rent burden puts it in the middle-to-upper range of Texas counties, where affordability challenges are becoming more common. The county's lower median income relative to state averages amplifies the impact of housing costs on household finances.
Slightly pricier than surrounding areas
Polk County's $1,009 median rent exceeds the Texas state average of $963 by about $46 monthly, placing it on the higher end for this region. Neighboring counties offer comparable or lower rents, making cross-county comparisons worthwhile for budget-conscious renters.
Owning costs less than renting here
Homeowners in Polk pay $655 monthly compared to renters' $1,009—a stark $354 difference that reflects the ownership advantage in this market. With a median home value of $154,000 and median income at $59,066, buying remains challenging but rewarding for those who can afford it.
Polk works best for homebuyers
If you're relocating to Polk County, plan ahead: rents are above average, but ownership costs are competitive and build equity. Compare Polk's numbers against lower-rent alternatives on this list before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Polk County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Polk County is affordable. The median rent is $1,009/month against a median household income of $59,066, putting rent at 20.5% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Polk County is $1,009/month, while owner costs run $655/month. Owning saves approximately $354/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $40,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,071/year. With a median household income of $59,066, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Polk County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Montague County where rent averages $957/month, Polk County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Polk County
Rent Burden
20.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,378
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Polk County
Median home value is $154,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,229 vs. your max of $1,378.
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
What is the cost of living in Polk County, Texas?
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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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