Hartley, TX vs Hays, TX

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hartley is 24.9% cheaper than Hays. With a cost index of 95 vs 127, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hartley to Hays should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hartley is $1,538/month compared to $2,150/month in Hays — a 29% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hartley is more affordable at $186,700 median vs $330,400.

Median household income in Hartley is $54,050 compared to $89,750 in Hays (-39.8%). While Hays is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Hartley spend roughly 34.1% of their income on rent, more than the 28.7% in Hays. The Hays ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, Hays is notably warmer with an average of 68.4°F compared to 56.8°F in Hartley. Hays receives more rainfall at 35.6" per year compared to 15.6" in Hartley.