Cost of Living in Wichita County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wichita County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wichita County ranks #2,161 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wichita County, Texas
Wichita Edges Above National Comfort Zone
Wichita County renters spend 18.8% of their income on housing, slightly above Texas's 18.1% average and crossing into tighter affordability territory than the national standard. With a $62,168 median household income and $972 monthly rent, the county sits just outside the affordable range that leaves residents breathing room.
Below Average for Affordability in Texas
Wichita ranks below the Texas state average for rent affordability, placing it among the less affordable counties statewide. The 18.8% rent-to-income ratio signals that housing costs here consume more of household budgets than in most comparable Texas communities.
Rents Close to State Median
At $972 monthly, Wichita's rent runs just $9 below the Texas state average, positioning it as an average-cost rental market in the region. However, homeownership carries a heavier burden: the $964 monthly mortgage payment nearly matches the rent, making it nearly identical in cost for buyers and renters alike.
18.8% to Housing, Strained Budgets
Renters in Wichita spend $972 monthly on housing out of a $62,168 annual income—18.8% of their take-home, leaving less flexibility for savings and emergencies. Homeowners face similar pressure with $964 monthly payments, and median home values of $141,600 require substantial down payments.
Consider Neighboring Counties for Relief
If housing affordability is your priority, Wichita's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio suggests comparing nearby options that sit below the state average. The county's tighter housing costs may be worth it if employment or community ties matter more than pure affordability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wichita County
Affordability Verdict
Wichita County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $972/month representing approximately 18.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Wichita County pay $972/month on average, compared to $964/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 1%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,314/year. With a median household income of $62,168, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Wichita County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Hartley County where rent averages $1,023/month, Wichita County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wichita County
Rent Burden
18.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,451
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wichita County
Median home value is $141,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,130 vs. your max of $1,451.
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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