Kaufman, TX vs Refugio, TX

The cost of living difference between Kaufman, TX and Refugio, TX is dramatic. Refugio is 46.3% cheaper than Kaufman, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Kaufman has a cost index of 92 while Refugio sits at 63, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Kaufman is $1,319/month compared to $748/month in Refugio — a 76% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Refugio is more affordable at $85,000 median vs $195,900.

Median household income in Kaufman is $58,269 compared to $56,193 in Refugio (+3.7%). Kaufman does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Kaufman spend roughly 27.2% of their income on rent, more than the 16% in Refugio.

Climate-wise, Refugio is notably warmer with an average of 73°F compared to 66.4°F in Kaufman. Kaufman receives more rainfall at 38.4" per year compared to 28.4" in Refugio.