Cost of Living in South Mountain, TX

With a cost of living index of 76, South Mountain, TX is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 24% cheaper than the national average and 11% below the Texas state average of 88. South Mountain is a small community of 295 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in South Mountain's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $988 (25% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $170,800 (44% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in South Mountain is $60,938, which is 19% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 19% 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 South Mountain. The area sees an average annual temperature of 67.1°F, with summers averaging 84°F and winters around 49°F. Annual rainfall totals 36.4 inches spread over roughly 80 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Killeen-Temple, 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.