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Cost of Living in ZIP 78646

Is it better to rent or buy in ZIP 78646? 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.

$89,667
$2,181/mo

Median in area: $2,181

$351,600

Median in area: $351,600

$70,320

If you Rent

$2,328 /mo
Base Rent$2,181
Est. Utilities$147
% of Income31.2%
Pre-tax Residual$5,144

If you Buy

$2,625 /mo
P&I (6.916%)$1,856
Taxes & Ins$622
Est. Utilities$147
% of Income35.1%
Pre-tax Residual$4,848

Compare Nearby Areas

See how ZIP 78646 stacks up against neighboring areas.

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in ZIP 78646?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in ZIP 78646. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $2,328, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,625 per month (a difference of $297).

How much do utilities cost in ZIP 78646?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in ZIP 78646 is approximately $147. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in ZIP 78646?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in ZIP 78646 without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $93,120 per year.