Cost of Living in Temple, TX

With a cost of living index of 86, Temple, TX is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 14% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Texas state average. With a population of 86,358, Temple 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 Temple's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,174 (11% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $220,300 (28% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.4x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Temple is $64,945, which is 14% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 22% 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 Temple. 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.