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Cost of Living in ZIP 78050

Is it better to rent or buy in ZIP 78050? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$60,696
$1,213/mo

Median in area: $1,213

$171,478

Median in area: $171,478

$34,296

If you Rent

$1,390 /mo
Base Rent$1,213
Est. Utilities$177
% of Income27.5%
Pre-tax Residual$3,668

If you Buy

$1,345 /mo
P&I (6.981%)$911
Taxes & Ins$257
Est. Utilities$177
% of Income26.6%
Pre-tax Residual$3,713

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in ZIP 78050?

Based on median housing data, buying is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in ZIP 78050. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,390, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,345 per month (a difference of $45).

How much do utilities cost in ZIP 78050?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in ZIP 78050 is approximately $177. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in ZIP 78050?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in ZIP 78050 without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $55,600 per year.