Contact Your Denton County Leaders

Denton County is becoming increasingly unaffordable for the people who live and work here. Nearly 46% of Denton households are low-income based on federal standards, and 45% of renting households fall into the “very low” or “extremely low” income categories. Many of these families spend far more than they can afford on housing — with up to 87% of extremely low-income renters cost-burdened, and 81% severely cost-burdened, meaning they spend over half their income on rent (see Fact Sheet, page 1 ).

At the same time, rents continue to rise. The median one-bedroom rent in Denton is $1,308, which is far above what many essential workers can afford. A 50% AMI household, which includes many teachers, service workers, and medical assistants, can afford only about $1,035, while a 30% AMI household can afford $621 (HTC Policy Presentation, page 11 ). This mismatch leaves thousands of residents with few stable options.

These pressures affect everyone. When workers can’t afford to live near jobs, local businesses struggle to hire. Families face longer commutes and increased stress. Health, education, and quality of life all decline.

Denton County needs more housing options, and residents play a key role in helping local leadership understand that.