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Cost of Living in Galveston County

Is it better to rent or buy in Galveston County? 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.

$96,421
$1,548/mo

Median in area: $1,548

$312,150

Median in area: $312,150

$62,430

If you Rent

🔑
$1,634 /mo
Base Rent$1,548
Est. Utilities$86
% of Income20.3%
Pre-tax Residual$6,401

If you Buy

🏠
$2,353 /mo
P&I (6.986%)$1,659
Taxes & Ins$608
Est. Utilities$86
% of Income29.3%
Pre-tax Residual$5,682

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Galveston County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyHarris County, TX
$1,557/mo
countyBrazoria County, TX
$1,587/mo
countyChambers County, TX
$1,736/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Galveston County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Galveston County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,634, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,353 per month (a difference of $719).

How much do utilities cost in Galveston County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Galveston County is approximately $86. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Galveston County?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Galveston County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $65,360 per year.