Cost of Living in Zapata County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Zapata County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Zapata County, Texas
Zapata County's Housing Market Tells a Different Story
Zapata County's 18.7% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds the national average, driven by a median household income of just $36,527—less than half the national median. While rents are genuinely low at $569 monthly, the real affordability challenge here is limited earning capacity, not high housing costs.
Income Squeeze Drives Housing Burden
Zapata County's 18.7% rent-to-income ratio marginally exceeds Texas's 18.1% state average, despite having the lowest rents in this county group. The issue isn't rent itself—at $569, it's 41% below the state median—but rather the county's limited wage base.
Cheapest Rents, But Lowest Incomes
Zapata County's $569 rent is the lowest among these five counties, but its $36,527 median income is also the lowest, creating a tradeoff. Neighboring Zavala County offers similar dynamics with $544 rent and $41,887 income, both representing South Texas's economic realities.
Housing Stress Despite Low Nominal Costs
Zapata County renters spend 18.7% of their $36,527 income on $569 rent, while homeowners allocate roughly 16% to owner costs of $480. Combined housing burden reaches 35%—above recommended levels—because wages, not rents, are the limiting factor for these families.
Affordable Living, Limited Job Market
Zapata County delivers ultra-low rents and modest home values ($88,800 median), but income opportunities are severely constrained compared to neighboring counties. Consider this county only if remote work or relocation with your current income is part of your plan.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Zapata County
Rent Burden
18.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$852
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Zapata County
Median home value is $88,800. Estimated monthly cost: $709 vs. your max of $852.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.