Cost of Living in Williamson County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Williamson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Williamson County ranks #2,239 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 29%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Williamson County, Texas
Williamson's Incomes Offset Housing Costs
Williamson County renters spend 19.1% of their income on housing—slightly above the Texas average of 18.1%, yet the county's $108,309 median household income is the highest in this group. High earners here have substantially more discretionary income despite paying premium rents of $1,720 monthly.
Premium Prices, Premium Incomes
Williamson ranks among Texas's most expensive counties by absolute housing costs, but its 19.1% rent-to-income ratio places it solidly in the affordable range relative to local earning power. The county's prosperity masks its position as one of the state's priciest markets.
Highest Rents, Highest Incomes
Williamson's $1,720 monthly rent far exceeds the Texas state average of $963—the highest in this group by a wide margin. However, the $108,309 median household income (45% above the national average) makes that premium rent manageable for residents.
19.1% to Housing, Affluent Cushion
Renters in Williamson allocate $1,720 monthly from a $108,309 household income to housing—19.1% of budget, which leaves $7,191 monthly for all other expenses. Homeowners pay $1,974 monthly for median-valued homes at $414,600, typical for Austin's boom-driven suburban sprawl.
High Costs, Higher Paychecks
If your job move to Williamson brings a salary near or above the county's $108,309 median, the 19.1% housing ratio is manageable despite $1,720 rents. This county rewards high earners with excellent affordability relative to income, though absolute housing costs are steep compared to rural Texas alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Williamson County
Affordability Verdict
Williamson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,720/month representing approximately 19.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,720/month rent versus $1,974/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $254/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $68,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $84,600/year. With a median household income of $108,309, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Williamson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Travis County where rent averages $1,669/month, Williamson County is approximately 3% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Williamson County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,527
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.9%
of gross income
The median home in Williamson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $414,600. Estimated monthly cost: $3,310 vs. your max of $2,527.
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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