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Cost of Living in College Station

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

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

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

$57,093
$1,378/mo

Median in area: $1,378

$321,811

Median in area: $321,811

$64,362

If you Rent

🔑
$1,538 /mo
Base Rent$1,378
Est. Utilities$160
% of Income32.3%
Pre-tax Residual$3,220

If you Buy

🏠
$2,399 /mo
P&I (6.862%)$1,689
Taxes & Ins$550
Est. Utilities$160
% of Income50.4%
Pre-tax Residual$2,359

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in College Station?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in College Station. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,538, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,399 per month (a difference of $861).

How much do utilities cost in College Station?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in College Station is approximately $160. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in College Station?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in College Station without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $61,520 per year.