Can You Afford to Buy in Southwest Austin or Dripping Springs?
Wondering if buying a home might actually make more sense than renting this year? Use our Rent vs. Buy Calculator below to compare your real monthly costs, see how long it takes to break even, and find out what fits your budget in today’s market.
When you’re ready, let’s connect and run your actual numbers with our preferred local lender — so you can see what you truly qualify for and start planning your next move confidently.
Rent vs buy
Should I rent or buy a home in Southwest Austin or Dripping Springs?
It depends mostly on how long you plan to stay. Put in your rent and the kind of home you’re looking at, and this compares what you’d really spend each way, including the equity you’d build by owning.
Example numbers are typical for 78749 in Southwest Austin: a $586,000 home (median single-family sale price, Unlock MLS, 12 months to September 2026) and $2,850 rent (median 3-bedroom house rent, RentHop, May 2026). Change any box to see your own numbers.
Your result
- Total cost of renting
- Total cost of buying
- Equity when you sell
- Buying starts to win after
Total cost of buying = down payment and closing costs (3%), every monthly payment, upkeep and the interest your down payment could have earned, minus what you’d walk away with after selling (6% selling costs). Down payments under 20% include mortgage insurance of about 0.5% a year until you reach 20% equity. An estimate only, not a loan offer. Texas tax rates vary a lot by neighborhood, and some newer communities add MUD or PID taxes.
Talk through my numbersTime is the biggest factor
Buying and selling a home costs money up front and at the end. The longer you stay, the more years you have to spread those costs out and build equity.Owning costs more than the mortgage
Property taxes, insurance, HOA dues and upkeep are part of the real monthly cost. In Texas, property taxes are often the second-biggest line after principal and interest.Renting has a cost too
Rent usually goes up every year and builds no equity. On the other hand, your down payment stays in savings and keeps earning.NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDES
SOUTHWEST AUSTIN NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE
Ready to discover the charm of Southwest Austin? From family-friendly communities to stunning hill country views and easy access to vibrant city life, local realtor Justin Cofield is your trusted guide to finding the ideal neighborhood. Browse our comprehensive Southwest Austin Neighborhood Guide today to explore top areas, local amenities, and insider tips that make Southwest Austin the perfect place to call home.
DRIPPING SPRINGS NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE
Ready to find the perfect neighborhood in Dripping Springs? Whether you're drawn to the serene hill country views, top-rated schools, or vibrant community life, local realtor Justin Cofield is here to guide you every step of the way. Browse our comprehensive Dripping Springs Neighborhood Guide today to explore the best areas, amenities, and hidden gems that make Dripping Springs the ideal place to call home.
CONNECT WITH JUSTIN TO GET STARTED TODAY
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Elaina Walzel
Linda Bostian49
Shellie Cleveland
