Cost of Living in Hays, TX

With a cost of living index of 127, Hays, TX is a notably expensive place to live. Living here is 27% more expensive than the national average and 39% above the Texas state average of 88. Hays is a small community of 173 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Hays's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $2,150 (63% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $330,400 (8% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.7x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Hays is $89,750, which is 19% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 29% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. While incomes are above average, they do not fully offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Hays. The area sees an average annual temperature of 68.4°F, with summers averaging 84°F and winters around 52°F. Annual rainfall totals 35.6 inches spread over roughly 82 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.