Cost of Living in Swisher County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Swisher County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Swisher County ranks #2,865 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 9%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Swisher County, Texas
Swisher rents are cheap, incomes lag
Swisher County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.4% exceeds Texas's 18.1% state average, reflecting below-median household earnings of just $39,031—nearly half the national median of $74,755. Monthly rents of $729 are affordable in absolute terms, but they consume a larger slice of residents' paychecks.
Below-average affordability for Texas
Swisher ranks in the lower half of Texas counties for housing affordability, with its 22.4% rent-to-income ratio placing it among the state's least affordable housing markets. Income constraints, not housing costs alone, drive this challenge.
Cheapest rents in the region
Swisher's $729 median rent undercuts most neighboring West Texas counties, but the county's lower income base means residents still struggle with affordability ratios. Owner costs at $600 monthly offer homeownership relief for those who can access down payments.
Over one-fifth of income goes to rent
Renters spend 22.4% of their $39,031 median income on housing, equivalent to roughly $728 monthly, leaving limited flexibility for other costs. Homeowners fare better, dedicating about 18.4% to monthly payments on a median $89,200 home.
Affordable, but income prospects matter
Swisher County works best for remote workers or retirees whose income isn't dependent on local wages, as jobs typically pay below state and national averages. If you're relocating for local employment, compare job opportunities carefully—cheap housing loses appeal if your paycheck shrinks.
Cost of Living Advisory: Swisher County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Swisher County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $729/month in gross rent, with 28.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Swisher County is $729/month, while owner costs run $600/month. Owning saves approximately $129/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,714/year. With a median household income of $39,031, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Swisher County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Gaines County where rent averages $788/month, Swisher County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Swisher County
Rent Burden
22.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$911
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Swisher County
Median home value is $89,200. Estimated monthly cost: $712 vs. your max of $911.
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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