Cost of Living in Wilson County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wilson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wilson County ranks #2,750 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 13%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wilson County, Texas
Wilson Offers Excellent Rental Affordability
Wilson County renters spend just 13.9% of their income on housing—significantly below the Texas average of 18.1% and among the nation's most affordable rent-to-income ratios. With a $92,461 median household income and $1,069 monthly rent, the county delivers genuine housing relief.
Top Tier for Texas Affordability
Wilson ranks in the top affordability tier across Texas counties, with a 13.9% rent-to-income ratio that places it among the state's most housing-friendly communities. Few Texas counties offer this combination of reasonable rents and strong incomes.
Premium Incomes, Reasonable Rents
Wilson's $1,069 monthly rent sits slightly above the Texas state average of $963, yet the $92,461 median household income—24% above the national median—makes housing genuinely affordable here. This county punches above its weight in income relative to housing cost.
13.9% to Rent, Maximum Flexibility
Renters in Wilson spend $1,069 monthly from a $92,461 household income—just 13.9%—leaving $7,161 monthly for savings, debt repayment, and quality of life. Homeowners invest $1,298 monthly in median-valued homes at $286,300, a solid investment for longer-term residents.
Ideal for Seekers of True Affordability
Wilson County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio and $92,461 median income make it one of Texas's best options for relocators prioritizing housing affordability. If your new job pays near the county median, you'll enjoy exceptional housing flexibility and lifestyle quality compared to pricier urban alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wilson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Wilson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,069/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,069/month rent versus $1,298/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $229/month cheaper — a 18% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $55,629/year. With a median household income of $92,461, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Wilson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Texas, Wilson County is less affordable than Coryell County by roughly 5% ($1,069/mo vs $1,120/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wilson County
Rent Burden
13.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,157
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.8%
of gross income
The median home in Wilson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $286,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,286 vs. your max of $2,157.
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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