Cost of Living in Taylor County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Taylor County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Taylor County ranks #2,393 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Taylor County, Texas
Taylor County housing strains middle income
Taylor County's 20.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds both Texas's 18.1% state average and approaches affordability stress thresholds, despite a median rent of $1,111. The median household income of $66,406 falls below the national median of $74,755, intensifying relative affordability pressure.
Middle-tier affordability for Texas
Taylor County ranks in Texas's middle-to-lower affordability tier, with its 20.1% rent-to-income ratio running consistently above state averages. As Abilene's home county, it reflects a regional economy with moderate wages and steadily climbing rents.
Rents climbing faster than West Texas rural
Taylor's $1,111 median rent substantially exceeds most surrounding West Texas rural counties but remains lower than urban Tarrant County. The county represents a midpoint between rural affordability and metro pricing.
One-fifth of income dedicated to rent
Renters spend 20.1% of their $66,406 median income on housing, equivalent to $1,111 monthly, leaving moderate room for other expenses. Homeowners allocate roughly 20.4% to monthly payments on a median $190,300 home, with an average payment of $1,127.
Balance opportunity with affordability trade-offs
Taylor County offers Abilene's employment stability and regional amenities at prices below major metros, though slightly elevated versus rural neighbors. Relocate here if you're seeking a mid-sized city with decent job prospects—just budget carefully, as housing costs are trending upward.
Cost of Living Advisory: Taylor County
Affordability Verdict
Taylor County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,111/month representing approximately 20.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Taylor County is $1,111/month, while owner costs run $1,127/month. Renting saves approximately $16/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,300/year. With a median household income of $66,406, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Taylor County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Texas, Taylor County is more affordable than Angelina County by roughly 5% ($1,111/mo vs $1,056/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Taylor County
Rent Burden
20.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,549
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Taylor County
Median home value is $190,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,519 vs. your max of $1,549.
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 Taylor County, Texas?
What is the median rent in Taylor County?
Is Taylor County affordable?
How does Taylor County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Taylor County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Taylor County, Texas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Taylor 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.