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Cost of Living in ZIP 78543

Is it better to rent or buy in ZIP 78543? 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.

$40,605
$832/mo

Median in area: $832

$92,781

Median in area: $92,781

$18,556

If you Rent

$939 /mo
Base Rent$832
Est. Utilities$107
% of Income27.8%
Pre-tax Residual$2,445

If you Buy

$898 /mo
P&I (7.01%)$494
Taxes & Ins$297
Est. Utilities$107
% of Income26.5%
Pre-tax Residual$2,485

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in ZIP 78543?

Based on median housing data, buying is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in ZIP 78543. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $939, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $898 per month (a difference of $41).

How much do utilities cost in ZIP 78543?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in ZIP 78543 is approximately $107. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in ZIP 78543?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in ZIP 78543 without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $37,560 per year.