Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Abilene, TX
The median monthly rent in Abilene, TX is $1,770, translating to $21,240 in annual gross rental income per unit. The rent-to-price ratio is 0.86% — below the 1% rule but within a range where deals can work with good financing.
Renters in Abilene spend approximately 33% of the local median household income ($63,735) on rent. This exceeds the standard 30% affordability threshold, suggesting rent growth may face resistance — but it also means a large portion of the population finds buying even more out of reach, supporting rental demand.
The vacancy rate in Abilene is 5.8%. This is a healthy vacancy rate that indicates balanced supply and demand. You should be able to find quality tenants without extended vacancies, though expect normal turnover periods of 2-4 weeks between tenants. Population growth of 1.8% annually is actively adding rental demand.
Abilene's GRM (price divided by annual rent) is 9.7x. A GRM under 12x is excellent — it means you're paying less than 12 years of gross rent for the property, suggesting strong income relative to price. For comparison, the national average GRM for investment-grade rentals is approximately 13-15x.
At the median rent of $1,770/mo, a single-family rental in Abilene generates approximately $21,240 in gross annual income. After accounting for 5.8% vacancy ($1,232 lost), property taxes of $3,526, insurance (~$820), and maintenance (~$820), the estimated NOI is $14,842 per year, or $1,237/mo.
Abilene vs Texas state average and national average across key investment metrics. Abilene outperforms both benchmarks on cap rate.