Cost of Living in Ward County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ward County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ward County ranks #1,588 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ward County, Texas
Ward County offers the state's best rental deals
Ward County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% ranks among Texas's best and well below the national standard, delivering genuine affordability for renters. With median rent at just $939—below even the state median of $963—and household income of $71,719, renters here allocate the smallest share of earnings to housing.
Texas's most affordable rental county
Ward County stands out statewide with a 15.7% rent-to-income ratio, significantly beating Texas's 18.1% average and delivering some of the state's most accessible rents. The $939 median rent ranks among the lowest in Texas, making Ward a rare island of affordability in an increasingly expensive state.
Dramatically cheaper than surrounding counties
Ward County's $939 rent undercuts every regional peer—it's $51 cheaper than Walker County, $72 cheaper than Van Zandt, and $211 cheaper than Waller. Yet the county's $71,719 income exceeds all neighbors except Waller, creating a uniquely favorable affordability profile.
Housing costs barely dent household budgets
Ward County renters pay just $939 monthly—only 15.7% of the median household income—while homeowners spend just $604, the lowest monthly ownership cost in this county cluster. The median home value of $138,800 represents the cheapest entry to homeownership in the region.
Best affordability for remote workers statewide
If you're relocating with portable income, Ward County delivers unmatched value: 15.7% rent-to-income ratio, $939 rents, and $138,800 home prices offer maximum financial breathing room. The county's oil-and-gas economy and energy sector jobs make it especially appealing for those seeking affordable West Texas living.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ward County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Ward County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $939/month in gross rent, with 19.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Ward County pay $939/month on average, compared to $604/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 36%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,886/year. With a median household income of $71,719, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Ward County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Texas, Ward County is more affordable than Brown County by roughly 6% ($939/mo vs $887/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ward County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,673
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ward County
Median home value is $138,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,108 vs. your max of $1,673.
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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