Cost of Living in San Patricio County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How San Patricio County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
San Patricio County ranks #3,028 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 4%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in San Patricio County, Texas
San Patricio's rent burden exceeds norms
San Patricio County's 22.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the least affordable in Texas, well above the national benchmark and the state average of 18.1%. Renters pay $1,239 monthly—29% above the state median—while earning a median household income of $67,512.
One of Texas's least affordable counties
San Patricio lands near the bottom of Texas's affordability rankings, with the state's highest rent-to-income ratio among these eight counties. The 22.0% burden reflects a rare combination: above-average rents paired with below-average incomes relative to cost.
Highest rents in the regional peer group
San Patricio's $1,239 median rent leads all nearby counties, exceeding San Jacinto ($1,018), San Saba ($894), and Sabine ($738) by substantial margins. Home values ($180,400) also rank among the region's highest, creating affordability pressure across both rental and purchase markets.
One-in-five dollars goes to rent
San Patricio renters spend 22.0% of their $67,512 median income on monthly rent—an uncommonly high proportion that squeezes other household budgets. Homeowners allocate 17.2% to monthly owner costs ($971), reflecting elevated home values and limited equity-building efficiency.
Reconsider unless income is strong
San Patricio's elevated rents and home values make it the least affordable option in this county comparison. Relocators should explore Sabine, San Saba, or Schleicher if housing costs are a priority—you'll find meaningful savings nearby.
Cost of Living Advisory: San Patricio County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in San Patricio County is affordable. The median rent is $1,239/month against a median household income of $67,512, putting rent at 22.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in San Patricio County pay $1,239/month on average, compared to $971/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 22%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $49,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,614/year. With a median household income of $67,512, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in San Patricio County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Bexar County where rent averages $1,290/month, San Patricio County is approximately 4% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in San Patricio County
Rent Burden
22.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,575
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in San Patricio County
Median home value is $180,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,440 vs. your max of $1,575.
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 San Patricio 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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