Cost of Living in Port Arthur, TX

With a cost of living index of 70, Port Arthur, TX is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 30% cheaper than the national average and 18% below the Texas state average of 88. With a population of 55,779, Port Arthur is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Port Arthur's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $996 (24% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $96,900 (68% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.1x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Port Arthur is $45,752, which is 39% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 26% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Port Arthur. The area sees an average annual temperature of 69.9°F, with summers averaging 83°F and winters around 56°F. Annual rainfall totals 62.1 inches spread over roughly 108 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Beaumont-Port Arthur, 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.