Cost of Living in Starr County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Starr County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Starr County, Texas
Starr faces severe affordability pressure
Starr County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.5% is the highest in this group and well above national norms, with renters spending more than one-fifth of their $38,182 income on housing. The county's median household income is 49% below the national median of $74,755.
Least affordable county profiled
Starr's 22.5% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Texas's 18.1% state average, making it the least affordable in this analysis. Despite lower rents of $715 monthly, the county's severely depressed incomes create acute housing pressure.
Lowest incomes, highest burden
Starr renters earn just $38,182—about half of Somervell County's $83,382—while carrying the region's second-highest rent burden at 22.5%. The $715 monthly rent is cheap, but represents an outsized share of scarce household income.
Housing squeezes limited income
Starr renters spend 22.5% of their median income on housing, leaving limited resources for food, healthcare, and education. Homeowners fare better, investing $425 monthly in ownership—13.3% of income—with median home values of just $93,300.
Cheap housing, severe income limits
Starr County offers the region's lowest rents and home values, but economic opportunity remains scarce. Relocators should prioritize this area only if secure, well-paying employment is already arranged.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Starr County
Rent Burden
22.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$891
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Starr County
Median home value is $93,300. Estimated monthly cost: $745 vs. your max of $891.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.