Cost of Living in Washington County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #2,704 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Texas
Washington County balances affordability with income
Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% sits comfortably below both the state average of 18.1% and national norms, signaling sustainable housing costs. The median household income of $75,085 nearly matches the national average of $74,755, making Washington a well-balanced housing market.
Among Texas's most affordable counties
Washington County ranks in the top tier statewide with a 17.4% rent-to-income ratio, below the Texas average and reflecting strong affordability for renters. The $1,091 median rent sits above the state median, but household incomes are correspondingly stronger, creating favorable balance.
Solid middle ground in the region
Washington County's $1,091 rent splits the difference between cheaper rural counties and expensive suburbs, while its $75,085 income ranks second in the cluster after Waller County. The county combines reasonable rents with strong earning capacity, making it a stable choice.
Rent takes modest slice of household budget
The typical Washington County renter pays $1,091 monthly—just 17.4% of household income—while homeowners spend $930, making the county affordable across both tenure types. Median home values of $270,100 sit above the county median income, suggesting ownership requires significant down payments.
Stable rural living with reliable affordability
Washington County appeals to families and remote workers seeking rural character without affordability sacrifice: the 17.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Texas's best. With strong median income and balanced housing costs, the county offers sustainable housing economics for most household profiles.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Washington County is affordable. The median rent is $1,091/month against a median household income of $75,085, putting rent at 17.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Washington County is $1,091/month, while owner costs run $930/month. Owning saves approximately $161/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,857/year. With a median household income of $75,085, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Washington County sits 5% more expensive than Navarro County ($1,039/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,752
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.9%
of gross income
The median home in Washington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $270,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,156 vs. your max of $1,752.
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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