Georgetown, TX: The 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

1. Georgetown: The Data Profile (2026)

Georgetown represents a statistical anomaly in the post-2024 economic landscape. With a population of 96,317, it operates as a "micro-urban" hub rather than a sprawling suburb. The economic engine here is potent: the median income sits at $95,160, which is 27.6% higher than the US median of $74,580. This disparity is amplified by a highly skilled labor force; 43.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, significantly outpacing the national average of 33.1%.

Target Demographic: The data points to a specific statistical target: dual-income professional couples, aged 30-50, seeking to leverage remote work flexibility. This demographic capitalizes on the 12% cost-of-living discount (specifically in housing) while maintaining proximity to the Austin metro economic zone.

2. Cost of Living Analysis

The Cost of Living Index (COLI) for Georgetown is anchored at 88.0, meaning a lifestyle costs 12% less than the US baseline. However, the income premium creates a massive gap between earnings and expenses.

Table 1: Monthly Cost of Living Breakdown (Estimated)

Disposable Income Analysis:
With a median household income of $95,160 ($7,930 monthly gross), a typical family retains approximately $886 monthly after taxes and the estimated $7,044 family living costs. This is 11.2% disposable income, which is tighter than the national average due to the higher tax bracket, but the low housing index (88.0) provides a crucial buffer.

3. Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the primary value proposition. While rent is controlled, the purchase market offers significant equity potential relative to income. The "Rent vs. Buy" gap favors buying due to the 12% discount on the median home price compared to US norms.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (2026)

Buy vs. Rent Strategy:
For 2026, the $1,850 monthly rent for a 3BR unit is attractive. However, buying at a median price of $375,000 with current mortgage rates hovering around 6.5% results in a monthly payment of roughly $2,800 (PITI). Renting is currently 34% cheaper monthly. However, with the median income at $95,160, the "28% Rule" (max housing spend) allows for a $2,220 monthly budget. Renting keeps you under budget, while buying requires significant financial stretch. Verdict: Rent initially to test the market; buy only if you plan a 7+ year hold to amortize closing costs.

4. Economic & Job Market Outlook

Georgetown is a "Zoom Town." The 4.2% unemployment rate is statistically negligible, sitting only 0.2% above the national average of 4.0%. The local economy is insulated by the 43.1% college-educated workforce, which is largely remote-first or tied to the stable healthcare and education sectors.

RTO & Commute:
In 2026, the commute is defined by "Hybrid Proximity." Georgetown is 25 miles from Downtown Austin. Without strict RTO mandates, residents utilize the SH-130 toll corridor. Average commute times are 26 minutes, significantly lower than the Austin metro average of 34 minutes. The economic stability is driven by the +27.6% income premium, allowing residents to absorb the $7.20 daily toll costs without impacting the $95,160 median budget.

5. Quality of Life Audit

Health metrics in Georgetown are generally favorable, though chronic disease rates mirror national trends. The air quality is a standout feature, driven by the "Hill Country" breeze.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Environment:
Safety presents a mixed bag. Violent crime is 446 per 100k, which is 17% higher than the US average of 380. However, property crime is the primary concern, clocking in at 2,876 per 100k—a staggering 44% higher than the national average of 2,000. Residents must invest in home security systems.

Air quality is excellent with an AQI of 48 and PM2.5 levels at 6.1 µg/m³, well below the EPA standard. Weather currently sits at 46.0°F, trending toward the mild winters of the Hill Country, though summers regularly exceed 100°F.

Schools: Georgetown ISD scores a 7/10 on aggregate testing, benefiting from the high education level of the parent base (43.1% college educated).

6. The Verdict

Pros:

• Income Power: Median income of $95,160 vs. low COL of 88.0.
• Housing Value: Home prices are 10.7% below the US median.
• Air Quality: AQI of 48 is superior to major metros.
• Education: Workforce is 43.1% college educated.

Cons:

• Property Crime: 2,876 incidents/100k is statistically significant risk.
• Violent Crime: Slightly elevated at 446/100k.
• Buying Barrier: Mortgage payments exceed the 28% income rule for median earners.

Final Recommendation:
Georgetown is a High-Yield Relocation Target for 2026, specifically for remote workers earning the national median or higher. It offers a rare arbitrage opportunity: big-city income potential (proximity to Austin) with small-town living costs (88.0). However, the high property crime rate (2,876/100k) requires a defensive living strategy. Rent first, buy later.

7. FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Georgetown in 2026?
For a single person, a salary of $65,000 allows for a 20% savings rate. For a family, $110,000 is the threshold to maintain the median standard of living while absorbing the 44% higher property crime insurance costs.

2. How does Georgetown value compare to Austin proper?
Georgetown is 12% cheaper for housing (Index 88.0 vs Austin's ~115). You save approximately $150,000 on a median home purchase, though you trade walkability for space.

3. Are the crime statistics a dealbreaker?
Not necessarily. The 2,876 property crime figure is high, but violent crime remains manageable at 446/100k. It is a "property theft" risk zone, not a "personal safety" crisis zone.

4. When is the best time to move in 2026?
Target March-April or October-November. The weather is optimal (current temp of 46.0°F is mild), and rental inventory fluctuates least during these months. Avoid moving in July when temperatures exceed 100°F.