Safe Rate Local

Cost of Living in Hayes County

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

← Back to Hayes County Hub

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

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

$69,250
$508/mo

Median in area: $508

$128,100

Median in area: $128,100

$25,620

If you Rent

🔑
$764 /mo
Base Rent$508
Est. Utilities$256
% of Income13.2%
Pre-tax Residual$5,007

If you Buy

🏠
$1,160 /mo
P&I (7.251%)$699
Taxes & Ins$205
Est. Utilities$256
% of Income20.1%
Pre-tax Residual$4,611

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Hayes County stacks up against neighboring areas.

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Hayes County?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Hayes County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $764, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,160 per month (a difference of $396).

How much do utilities cost in Hayes County?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Hayes County is approximately $256. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Hayes County?

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