Cost of Living in Barbour County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Barbour County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Barbour County ranks #1,992 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Barbour County, Alabama
Barbour offers nationally low housing costs
Renters in Barbour County spend just 17.4% of their income on housing, beating the national average of 18% and the state average of 18%. However, the county's median household income of $44,290 falls far below the national median of $74,755, indicating rural economic challenges alongside affordable housing.
Alabama's most affordable county
Barbour County ranks as the state's most affordable housing market, with the lowest median rents and home values across Alabama. The county's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio is the best in this group, making it ideal for cost-conscious households.
Cheapest rents and homes in the region
Barbour's median rent of $644 is the lowest among all eight counties, undercutting even rural Bibb ($802) and Bullock ($635) counties. Its median home value of $109,900 makes homeownership accessible, though the county's low incomes mean housing savings don't always offset wage disadvantages.
Rock-bottom costs, limited income opportunities
Renters pay just $644 monthly and homeowners $632, costs that consume less than 20% of the county's $44,290 median income. While housing affordability shines, the underlying income challenge means residents stretch thin on other essentials despite low rent burdens.
Ideal for remote workers with fixed income
Barbour County's $644 median rent and affordable home values make it perfect for remote workers or retirees with income independent of local job markets. If you can earn elsewhere, Barbour's housing costs offer substantial savings; however, job-seekers should explore other Alabama counties first.
Cost of Living Advisory: Barbour County
Affordability Verdict
Barbour County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $644/month representing approximately 17.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $644/month rent versus $632/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $12/month cheaper — a 2% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $27,086/year. With a median household income of $44,290, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Barbour County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Barbour County sits 8% less expensive than Wilcox County ($699/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Barbour County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,033
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Barbour County
Median home value is $109,900. Estimated monthly cost: $877 vs. your max of $1,033.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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