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Cost of Living in South Houston

Is it better to rent or buy in South Houston? 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.

$52,008
$1,311/mo

Median in area: $1,311

$167,550

Median in area: $167,550

$33,510

If you Rent

$1,378 /mo
Base Rent$1,311
Est. Utilities$67
% of Income31.8%
Pre-tax Residual$2,956

If you Buy

$1,309 /mo
P&I (6.931%)$886
Taxes & Ins$356
Est. Utilities$67
% of Income30.2%
Pre-tax Residual$3,025

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in South Houston?

Based on median housing data, buying is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in South Houston. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,378, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,309 per month (a difference of $69).

How much do utilities cost in South Houston?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in South Houston is approximately $67. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in South Houston?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in South Houston without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $55,120 per year.