Hidden Costs of Homeownership in the Houston Metro

The avg US homeowner now pays ~$16K/yr in hidden homeownership costs, including maintenance, insurance, and property taxes.
These hidden costs are rising faster than household incomes, 4.7% vs. 3.8% over the past year.
Hidden homeownership costs in Houston avg ~$15.7K/yr, near the national avg.
Property taxes are relatively low at ~$2.9K/yr, but insurance (~$3K) and maintenance (~$9.8K) keep total costs significant.
Rising insurance premiums in Texas make affordability an increasing concern for homeowners.