Cost of Living in Palestine, TX
Population 18,888 · Texas · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Palestine run well below national norms — a median of $46,228 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $153,000). At 6.7%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Palestine is about 45 miles southwest of Tyler, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 29% lower than Tyler's $216,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Palestine
The median home value in Palestine is $153,400 — 50% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,032/month, 21% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $46,228/year is 38% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 6.7%, above the national average of 4.8%. Texas charges no state income tax, a meaningful advantage for take-home pay. The climate averages highs of 77.3°F and lows of 53.9°F. Overall, Palestine has a cost of living index of 62 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 38% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🌤 Climate
NOAA 1991–2020 Climate Normals
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 59 | 63 | 70 | 77 | 84 | 90 | 94 | 95 | 89 | 80 | 68 | 60 |
| Low °F | 35 | 39 | 45 | 53 | 62 | 69 | 72 | 71 | 65 | 54 | 44 | 37 |
| Precip" | 4.05 | 3.87 | 4.11 | 4.13 | 4.32 | 4.50 | 2.57 | 3.66 | 3.31 | 4.23 | 3.85 | 4.20 |
| Snow" | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Palestine, TX?
Palestine has a cost index of 62 (100 = national average). It is 38% below the national average.
What is average rent in Palestine, TX?
The median gross rent in Palestine is $1,032 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Palestine?
The median home value in Palestine is $153,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Palestine?
The median household income in Palestine is $46,228 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Palestine, TX?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Palestine is 8.2%. Texas has no state income tax.
Is Palestine, TX affordable?
Yes, Palestine is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 62 — about 38% below the US national average of 100.
What is the weather like in Palestine?
Palestine has average high temperatures of 77.3°F and average lows of 53.9°F. Annual precipitation is 46.8". Average annual snowfall is 0.1". Data from NOAA 1991–2020 Climate Normals.
Palestine at a Glance
- Population
- 18,888
- Median Income
- $46,228
- Home Value
- $153,400
- Median Rent
- $1,032/mo
- Unemployment
- 6.7%
- Avg High Temp
- 77.3°F
- Sales Tax
- 8.2%
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