Cost of Living in San Benito, TX

With a cost of living index of 64, San Benito, TX is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 36% cheaper than the national average and 24% below the Texas state average of 88. San Benito is a smaller community of 24,677 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in San Benito's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $885 (33% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $85,100 (72% 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 San Benito is $41,445, which is 45% 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 San Benito. 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.