Cost of Living in Rio Hondo, TX

With a cost of living index of 63, Rio Hondo, TX is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 37% cheaper than the national average and 24% below the Texas state average of 88. Rio Hondo is a small community of 1,970 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Rio Hondo's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $834 (37% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $94,700 (69% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.6x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Rio Hondo is $60,000, which is 20% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. 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 Rio Hondo. The area sees an average annual temperature of 75°F, with summers averaging 86°F and winters around 63°F. Annual rainfall totals 24 inches spread over roughly 84 days. Hot summers are common, which can affect utility costs and lifestyle.

Everyday prices in the Brownsville-Harlingen, 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.